Poland Hosts Moldova Without Captain Lewandowski

GLIWICE, Poland — Poland will play against Moldova on Friday at the Silesian Stadium, hoping to extend their perfect start in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Polish national team will do so without their captain, Robert Lewandowski, who has opted to rest due to fatigue after a demanding season with FC Barcelona.

Under the guidance of head coach Michal Probierz, Poland has won their last two qualifiers, defeating Lithuania 1-0 and Malta 2-0 earlier this year. These victories place Poland in a strong position in Group G as they look to secure a spot in the World Cup next year.

In contrast, Moldova’s qualification campaign has started poorly. They have lost both of their initial matches, suffering a heavy 5-0 defeat to Norway and a narrow 3-2 loss to Estonia. Moldova currently sits at the bottom of Group I with no points and a goal difference of -6.

Despite Lewandowski’s absence, Probierz’s squad still contains key players, such as Jan Bednarek and Piotr Zielinski. Goalkeeper Marcin Bulka is also set to start on Friday. With center-back Kamil Piatkowski unavailable, Poland will likely use a back three consisting of Mateusz Wieteska, Bednarek, and Jakub Kiwior.

The match holds additional significance as veteran winger Kamil Grosicki will be honored during the game as he steps away from international football. On the Moldova side, they enter the match with a fully fit squad, hoping to capture their first win of the campaign.

Heerenveen forward Ion Nicolaescu is expected to lead Moldova’s attack, supported by Mihail Caimacov. Both teams will be looking to capitalize on this friendly match as they gear up for more critical qualifiers in the coming weeks.