As excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, the Polish national football team is preparing to take on Lithuania in their first qualifying match this Friday, March 21, 2025. Scheduled to kick off at 20:45 local time at the PGE Narodowy in Warsaw, this match is crucial for Poland as they aim to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Poland finds itself placed in Group G along with Finland, Lithuania, Malta, and the winner of the upcoming playoff match between Spain and the Netherlands. The stakes are high—only the top team in the group will qualify automatically for the World Cup, while the second-placed team will have a chance to contest the playoffs for a place in the tournament.
Historically, Poland has had the upper hand in its encounters with Lithuania, winning five out of the eleven matches these teams have played against each other. Four matches ended in draws, and Lithuania has secured victory in two occasions. The most notable victory came in a friendly match on the eve of the 2018 World Cup, wherein Poland triumphed 4-0.
Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the Polish squad, revamped under new head coach Michał Probierz, will perform. Probierz has reportedly emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong team morale while effectively communicating tough truths when necessary. As he stated, "Trainer Probierz is experienced and understands when players need to relax or when they need to be pushed. Using strong words at the right moment helps, not to discourage them, but to support them."
The match will be accessible to a wide audience as it will be broadcast live on multiple platforms including TVP 1, TVP 1 HD, TVP Sport, and TVP Sport HD. For viewers preferring online streaming, options are available through platforms like Pilot WP and TVP Sport. Live text coverage will also be provided by WP SportoweFakty, ensuring no fan misses out on the action.
Kickoff for the match is set for 20:45 on Friday, and this inaugural game of the World Cup qualifiers is not just a chance for Poland to garner points; it’s also an opportunity for the team to establish a strong stance early in the tournament. Coached by Probierz, players are aware that their objective is to finish at least second in Group G to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
In related news, other matches within the group will follow closely. On Monday, March 24, 2025, Lithuania will host Finland at 18:00, while Poland will take on Malta later at 20:45. For the supporters of Polish football, the coming days hold a promise of excitement and tension as the journey towards the World Cup commences.
With memories of past successes and challenges still fresh, players and fans alike are keenly aware of the importance these qualifiers hold. For Poland, a strong showing against Lithuania could set a positive tone for the remainder of their qualifying campaign. The Biało-Czerwoni, known for their resilient spirit, are poised to make a serious push for the World Cup, and this match could be a crucial first step.