Stal Rzeszów secured a confident 1-0 victory over Kotwica Kołobrzeg during their recent encounter at Hetmańska, marking their first home game of the year. The defining moment came courtesy of Haris Duljević, who netted the only goal of the match shortly after the hour mark.
From the outset, the fixture on February 21, 2025, promised to be challenging for the visitors, who arrived with just thirteen players. Their depleted squad posed significant limitations, evident as Stal Rzeszów dominated the field throughout the first half without finding the back of the net.
Despite the pressure, both teams ended the first half goalless, with Stal generating several chances, yet failing to convert them. Key opportunities were seen when Duljević and Sebastien Thill tested the Kotwica defense, but resistance remained strong.
The breakthrough finally arrived during the 61st minute. Thill, instrumental to Stal's midfield dynamics, displayed brilliant vision as he delivered a precise through ball to Duljević. Demonstratively, the Bosnian forward executed his strike without allowing for any touch. His shot was exquisitely placed, darting past the goalkeeper and securing Stal’s lead, which they maintained until the final whistle.
This triumphant win propels Stal Rzeszów to ninth place on the Betclic I liga table, amassing 30 points after 21 matches, indicating promising momentum as they prepare for their upcoming clash against Warta Poznań. Meanwhile, Kotwica Kołobrzeg, with only 18 points, is perilously placed at 15th, dangerously close to the relegation zone.
Post-match, Stal's coach Marek Zub expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of the victory and the contributions from players like Duljević and Thill. “We had the obligation to win, and even though it was not easy, we managed to secure the three points,” Zub stated. His sentiments echoed the team’s determined mindset, aiming to capitalize on any advantageous position within the league.
The match statistics reaffirmed Stal's dominance with greater possession and numerous attempts on goal. The game saw multiple stoppages for fouls, with both teams earning yellow cards, reflecting the physical nature of the contest. Stal maintained composure during the tense final minutes of the match, preventing Kotwica from capitalizing on potential errors.
Looking forward, Kotwica will need to reassess their tactics to avoid falling back electrocuted by their previous struggles, particularly with their next fixture against ŁKS Łódź looming on the horizon. The coaching staff and players alike face increased pressure to improve their standing and secure necessary points from upcoming matches.
Fans left the stadium entertained, albeit with hope for their respective teams’ futures. With each game presenting new challenges and opportunities, the second round of the season progresses with heightened anticipation across the league.