Poland kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lithuania, thanks to a late deflected strike from captain Robert Lewandowski. The win ends Poland’s five-match winless streak, but their performance left much to be desired against a Lithuanian side ranked 142nd in the world.
Poland Dominate Possession but Struggle to Convert Chances
Coming off a disappointing 2024 that included an early EURO exit and UEFA Nations League relegation, Poland were under pressure to start their World Cup qualifiers on a strong note. Facing a Lithuanian team that has struggled historically in qualification campaigns, this match was seen as an opportunity for a convincing victory.
From the outset, Michał Probierz’s team controlled the game, creating several opportunities. Lewandowski tested Lithuanian goalkeeper Edvinas Gertmonas early, forcing a save with a sharp shot, while Przemysław Frankowski came close from close range. Jakub Piotrowski and Frankowski continued to press Lithuania’s defense, but the visitors stood firm.
At the other end, Polish goalkeeper Łukasz Skorupski had little to do, with Lithuania’s only notable first-half effort coming from Gvidas Gineitis, whose shot was comfortably saved.
Frustration Grows as Lithuania Holds Firm
As the second half began, Poland’s finishing woes persisted. Piotrowski wasted a golden opportunity, sending his shot over the bar after a well-worked corner from Sebastian Szymański. Matty Cash also went close, but his deflected strike was parried away by Gertmonas, who had an outstanding performance in goal.
Lithuania’s defensive discipline and work rate frustrated the home crowd, and as the clock ticked down, the visitors began to threaten an upset. Giedrius Matulevičius nearly snatched a shock lead, ghosting into the penalty area before forcing a crucial save from Skorupski.
Lewandowski Delivers in the Dying Moments
With time running out and Poland staring at an embarrassing draw, their talisman Robert Lewandowski stepped up. Set up by substitute Jakub Kamiński, the Barcelona striker’s shot took a massive deflection off Artemijus Tutyškinas, wrong-footing Gertmonas and finding the back of the net.
It was a fortunate goal but one that Poland deserved based on their dominance. Lithuania, despite their resilience, left empty-handed, extending their poor record in World Cup qualifiers—having now won just two of their last 19 qualification matches.
Poland Earns Three Points, but Concerns Remain
While the victory puts Poland on the right track in their qualifying campaign, the performance raises questions about their attacking efficiency. Against stronger opponents, a lack of clinical finishing could prove costly.
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For Lithuania, this was yet another missed opportunity for a statement result, but their defensive organization and commitment will give them confidence moving forward.
Poland will now look to build momentum as they continue their quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Lithuania will hope to find their first points in the next round of fixtures.
