The 48th Tricity Derby ended in a 2:2 draw, delivering huge emotions and controversies to the fans. Arka Gdynia was already leading by two goals, but Lechia Gdańsk managed to recover the deficit in the final minutes of the match. Post-match attention is focused on refereeing decisions and the video verification system, which, according to the hosts, distorted the outcome of the rivalry. Simultaneously, Polish clubs Lech Poznań and Jagiellonia Białystok learned their opponents in the UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16.

Draw in the Tricity Derby

Arka Gdynia and Lechia Gdańsk shared points after an exciting match ending 2:2, despite the hosts' two-goal lead.

Storm Around the VAR System

Coach Dawid Szwarga and Arka players sharply criticized the refereeing decisions of Paweł Raczkowski, calling the on-field situation scandalous.

Polish Clubs in Europe

Lech Poznań and Jagiellonia Białystok learned their opponents in the next phase of the UEFA Europa Conference League, which will affect Poland's position in the UEFA ranking.

Showcase of Young Talent

A 19-year-old Arka player scored a spectacular long-range goal, which became one of the most discussed moments of the matchday.

Friday's clash between Arka Gdynia and Lechia Gdańsk will be remembered as one of the most intense derby matches in recent years. The hosts started the match with immense vigor, quickly imposing their style of play and taking a two-goal lead. A particular highlight of the match was a spectacular goal scored by a 19-year-old Arka player, whose precise long-range strike sent the stands into ecstasy. It seemed that a historic victory in the Ekstraklasa over their local rival was within reach, but Lechia showed incredible character, fighting until the final whistle to change the unfavorable result. The rivalry between Arka Gdynia and Lechia Gdańsk, known as the Tricity Derby, was born in 1964. For decades, these matches have been the most important sporting event in Pomerania, dividing the region into two loyal fan camps. After the match, the main topic of discussion became the work of the refereeing team, led by Paweł Raczkowski. The coaching staff and players of Arka did not hide their frustration with decisions made involving the VAR system. Coach Dawid Szwarga harshly commented on the course of the match, suggesting his team was wronged by the officials. The players from Gdynia emphasized that some interpretations of borderline situations were incomprehensible, leading to the loss of valuable points in the prestigious clash. Despite sporting disappointment, experts praised the technical level of the spectacle and the record attendance in the stands. 2:2 — result of the 48th Tricity Derby between Arka and Lechia At the same time, the fate of Polish representatives in European cups was decided on the international stage. Lech Poznań and Jagiellonia Białystok learned their opponents in the UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16. The draw stirred considerable emotions, especially regarding logistics and potential difficulties organizing matches with Ukrainian teams, which expressed reluctance to play on Polish territory. This situation impacts the UEFA ranking, where Poland is fighting to improve its position. Domestically, preparations are also underway for the headline matches of the 23rd league round, including Lech vs. Raków and Jagiellonia vs. Legia, which could define the balance of power in the championship race. „Jestem wściekły, bo czujemy się po prostu okradzeni z ciężko wywalczonych punktów w tak prestiżowym meczu.” (I am furious because we simply feel robbed of hard-earned points in such a prestigious match.) — Dawid Szwarga

Mentioned People

  • Dawid Szwarga — Coach of Arka Gdynia, who criticized refereeing decisions after the derby.
  • Paweł Raczkowski — Head referee of the 48th Tricity Derby, assessing contentious situations.
  • Karol Nawrocki — Politician, whose presence at the match was speculated by the media.