Poland vs Netherlands: Women’s World Cup Qualifying – Live Updates
Gdańsk, Poland – The Polish women’s national team begins its quest for a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup today, , with a challenging home fixture against the Netherlands at Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk. Kick-off is scheduled for local time.
This match marks the opening contest in Group 2 of the qualifying tournament, where Poland finds itself alongside formidable opponents in France and Ireland. The group winner will automatically advance to the tournament in Brazil, even as the remaining three teams will compete in a playoff bracket later in 2026.
Poland is coming off a historic performance at the 2025 European Championships, a milestone achievement that has fueled optimism and raised expectations for the national program. Although, head coach Nina Patalon acknowledges the significant challenge posed by the Dutch side, currently ranked 11th in the FIFA rankings.
“At this level, there are no easy opponents,” Patalon stated. “Each of our rivals presents a different style of play and a different approach to football, which makes for some fascinating challenges ahead.”
The Netherlands and Poland played to a 0-0 draw in a friendly match last , also held at Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk. While that result offered a measure of encouragement, Patalon emphasized that both teams have evolved since that encounter.
“That match was a test, we played with a modified lineup and, like our opponents, we were testing fresh solutions. Today, both teams are in a different place. However, we are primarily focused on ourselves, because the opponent is as dangerous as you allow him to be. If you can counter in key areas, while also utilizing your own strengths, then he must also adapt and be prepared for what you serve him,” Patalon explained.
Poland will need to navigate a demanding qualifying schedule. Following today’s match against the Netherlands, they will travel to France to face another tough test on , at Stade Gaston-Gérard. The team will be looking to build momentum and establish themselves as a competitive force in Group 2.
The atmosphere at Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk is expected to be electric, with fans eager to support the national team as they embark on this crucial qualifying campaign. A crowd of over 10,500 witnessed Poland’s 3-0 victory over Romania in June, setting a new attendance record for the women’s national team. Patalon hopes the home crowd can provide a similar boost today.
“We are delighted to be returning to Gdańsk, which has become a true home for the Polish national team. The atmosphere at Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk and the support of the fans always give us strength. These upcoming friendly matches are of enormous importance to us – it is not only a test against demanding opponents, but also a key stage in preparations for the spring matches in League A of the Nations League. We are very much looking forward to meeting the fans and hope that the attendance in the stands will be our additional asset,” Patalon said.
The qualifying competition for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup involves 53 national teams divided into three divisions. Poland is among the 16 teams in Division A, the highest tier of competition. The draw in November placed Poland in a challenging group with France, the Netherlands, and Ireland.
Direct qualification for the tournament finals will be awarded to the winners of each group in Division A, while the remaining teams will battle for a place in the playoffs, scheduled for November and December 2026. The group stage of qualifying will run from March to June.
Today’s match represents a significant opportunity for Poland to make a statement and lay the foundation for a successful qualifying campaign. While the Netherlands are considered the favorites, Patalon and her team are determined to compete and potentially spring an upset in front of their home supporters.