Poland Set To Face Lithuania In World Cup Qualifier

The Polish national football team is gearing up for its first match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lithuania, which will take place at PGE Narodowy in Warsaw on March 21, 2025, at 20:45.

Despite being a standout player in the Turkish league with 18 goals to his name, Krzysztof Piątek will begin the match on the bench, as confirmed by coach Michał Probierz. Piątek's excellent form has not secured him a starting position, as he faces competition from the Greek attacker from Panathinaikos.

Joining him on the bench will be Mateusz Bogusz, another talented player, who recently transferred from Los Angeles FC to Cruz Azul and has been performing admirably.

Returning to the national lineup is Matty Cash, making his comeback after nearly a year away from the team, marking a significant moment for the Aston Villa player as he rejoins his teammates.

The Polish team is excited to face Lithuania, as indicated by the expectations surrounding the match. The last time these two teams met in Warsaw in 2018, Poland triumphed with a 4-0 victory, as they prepared for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

In their World Cup qualifying group, Poland faces additional challenges ahead, including matches against Malta and the eventuality of playing against Finland and the potential matchup against the loser of the Spain vs. Netherlands quarter-final in the Nations League. As the favorites to advance, Poland understands the importance of not taking any of these games lightly.

“You have a better team, better players playing in better leagues. However, that does not guarantee anything in Friday's match,” said Lithuania's coach Edgaras Jankauskas, who praised Robert Lewandowski's exemplary form. “He is timeless, does not age. He serves as an example for every athlete, and having such an icon in the team benefits the younger generations.”

Fans are eager to see Lewandowski take the field, as he remains one of the best strikers in the world, not only leading the Spanish league but also being a source of inspiration for young fans.

As the Polish team gathers in Warsaw, kids have a unique opportunity to meet their idols, including a humorous interaction between Lewandowski and a young fan who asked whether he prefers Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. With a smile, Lewandowski responded, “I prefer Lewandowski.”

The excitement is palpable for both players and fans alike, as they prepare for the opening match in what promises to be a thrilling qualification round. The matches will be broadcasted live on TVP 1 and TVP Sport, offering fans multiple platforms to catch the action—from television to online streaming on the TVP Sport website and app.

Recorder commentary will come from the experienced Mateusz Borek and Grzegorz Mielcarski, ensuring an engaging viewing experience for all. In the buildup to the match, Poland has played 45 total matches at PGE Narodowy, securing 26 wins, with their latest victory occurring in June 2024 against Turkey.

Injuries hinder the Polish squad as well, with key players Piotr Zieliński, Nicola Zalewski, and Paweł Dawidowicz unable to participate due to physical setbacks. Despite these challenges, expectations remain high for Poland to secure a significant win against Lithuania, with any other outcome considered a surprise.

The broader context of these qualifying matches is critical; only the group winners will earn direct entry into the World Cup in 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The anticipation and pressure are mounting for Poland as they strive for success in these crucial qualifying rounds.