The Breath of Relief Pogoń Needed

The atmosphere in Szczecin was heavy with tension. After three games without a win, the pressure on Pogoń Szczecin side was undeniable. Facing Piast Gliwice became a must-win clash to silence critics and reconnect with their fans. And they did it—though not without drama.

A late strike from Kamil Grosicki from the penalty spot gave the “Portowcy” a much-needed three points. It wasn’t just a win, it was a lifeline. The result snapped their poor run, restored confidence, and proved Szczecin can still deliver when it matters most.

A First Half of Blows Traded

From the opening whistle, neither team looked willing to settle. Pogoń pressed with possession and positional play, while Piast looked dangerous on quick counterattacks.

The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Mor Ndiaye rose above his marker and powered home a header for Szczecin. But the joy was short-lived. Just three minutes later, German Barkovskiy punished a defensive mistake to level the match at 1-1.

The halftime scoreline reflected balance, but the feeling in the stadium was clear—Szczecin looked like the side with more hunger.

Grosicki, the Late Hero

The second half was defined by Szczecin dominance. Greenwood and Grosicki created chance after chance, but Piast goalkeeper Frantisek Plach stood tall, denying them repeatedly.

When it seemed the game was destined for a draw, VAR intervened. A handball from Tomasz Mokwa was reviewed, and the referee pointed to the spot. Captain Kamil Grosicki stepped up, and with nerves of steel, executed a cheeky “Panenka” in the 89th minute to make it 2-1.

Piast thought they had equalized immediately after, but the goal was ruled offside. Szczecin’s fortune had finally turned their way.

What This Victory Means

Beyond the three points, this win could mark a turning point for Thomasberg’s men. Pogoń showed resilience, character, and the ability to handle pressure in a must-win situation.

Grosicki reaffirmed his status as the undisputed leader of the squad, while the defensive unit remains a concern that must be addressed. For Piast, it was a night of frustration—solid for long stretches but lacking the edge to take more.

In a league as competitive as the Ekstraklasa, every point matters. And with this dramatic win, Pogoń Szczecin may have just sparked their comeback.