Poland Opens 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Against Lithuania

On March 21, 2025, the Polish national football team will kick off their qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a match against Lithuania at the PGE Narodowy in Warsaw. Scheduled for 20:45 CET, this encounter marks an important moment for the Biało-Czerwoni (White and Reds), as they seek redemption and a fresh start following a tumultuous previous year during which they exited the UEFA Euro 2024 at the group stage.

Heading into the match, Poland is significantly favored, positioned 35th in FIFA's world rankings, while Lithuania languishes at 142nd. The Polish side has historically fared well against Lithuania, having won their last encounter 4-0 in 2018. However, they remember a 2-0 defeat back in 2011, which serves as a reminder that complacency can be costly.

Coach Michał Probierz, determined to secure a straightforward victory, hints at some lineup changes due to player injuries. The key starters in the match against Lithuania are expected to include Robert Lewandowski, who emphasized the importance of starting strong, stating, "We all start from zero." Likely occupying the goalpost is Łukasz Skorupski, as Probierz expressed confidence in his selection during a press conference. Unfortunately for the national side, two pivotal players, Piotr Zieliński and Nicola Zalewski, will not participate due to injuries, potentially affecting team dynamics.

In a bid to support match-goers, Warsaw officials have arranged for free public transport in the city on match day. Fans presenting a match ticket, accreditation, or VIP invitation can utilize this service from 6:00 AM until 1:00 AM the following day. The move aims to enhance accessibility for attendees at the PGE Narodowy and hones in on the spirited relationship between Polish football and its supporters.

The match is not only critical for World Cup aspirations but also crucial for building momentum. After a series of unfortunate results leading up to this match—including one win, a draw, and four losses since defeating Scotland 3-2 last September—Poland is eager for victory to galvanize fans and players alike. Amidst a challenging period, the Biało-Czerwoni are determined not to falter against a perceived weaker opponent.

Betting odds suggest a confident expectation for a Polish victory, with bookmakers placing the odds of a win at approximately 1.15 while assigning Lithuania an odds range of about 20.00-22.00 for their success. The predictions reflect Poland's overwhelming dominance as they aim to secure an early lead in the qualifying round of the World Cup.

For fans unable to attend the match live, the action will be broadcast on TVP 1 and TVP Sport, with additional online coverage available on sport.tvp.pl. Commentary will be provided by a skilled pair in Mateusz Borek and Grzegorz Mielcarski, ensuring that supporters outside the stadium can still engage with the experience.

Ultimately, this match represents not just another qualifier but a chance for Poland to shed the weight of past failures and pave a new path toward a successful World Cup campaign. Enthusiastic anticipation surrounds the PGE Narodowy as players and supporters alike prepare to embark on this journey together. The stakes are high, and the fans are ready to rally behind their team. Will the Biało-Czerwoni rise to the occasion and mark their qualification campaign with a memorable victory? The excitement will soon unfold on match day.