Lech Poznań and Raków Częstochowa Learn Opponents for UEFA Conference League Round of 16

The fate of the Polish representatives in the UEFA Conference League round of 16 was decided during the draw ceremony in Swiss Nyon. The Conference League is entering its decisive phase, and Polish fans received pairings that generate immense excitement. Lech Poznań drew Shakhtar Donetsk, which the Kolejorz coach described as the fulfillment of his sporting dreams. The Ukrainian team moved to this competition after being eliminated from a higher-tier tournament, and in the past has already had to acknowledge the superiority of Poland's Legia Warszawa, giving Poznań fans hope for a favorable result. Meanwhile, Raków Częstochowa will have a chance to avenge Jagiellonia Białystok. The draw paired the Częstochowa side with ACF Fiorentina. The Italians, although favorites, approach their opponent with respect, calling Raków a disciplined and tactically dangerous team. Italian media emphasize that the clash with the Polish runner-up will not be a formality. Experts point out that the key for Raków will be avoiding defensive mistakes that previously doomed the Białystok side in their encounter with the team from Florence. Polish clubs have already earned significant financial bonuses in this edition, and advancing to the next round would substantially increase their budgets. European cups underwent a thorough reform in the 2024/2025 season, replacing the traditional group stage with a league system, which significantly increased the number of matches played. Bookmakers remain moderately optimistic, indicating that the Polish teams are capable of competing with the powerhouses on equal terms. Particular attention is drawn to the form of Łukasz Skorupski, who is displaying excellent form for Bologna ahead of the upcoming national team playoffs, which indirectly contributes to a positive atmosphere around Polish football. Meanwhile, Raków has seen squad changes – the departure of Steve Kapuadi was commented on by coach Marek Papszun, who did not spare harsh words regarding the player's attitude. Despite these upheavals, both Polish teams are focused on the historic chance of reaching the final, which will be played in Wrocław. „To bolesna sytuacja, gdy zawodnik przedkłada interes własny nad dobro drużyny w tak kluczowym momencie sezonu.” (It's a painful situation when a player prioritizes his own interest over the team's good at such a crucial point in the season.) — Marek Papszun Both Lech and Raków currently have a solid position in the UEFA ranking, allowing the Polish league to realistically dream of maintaining its 12th place in the national association ranking. Success in the round of 16 would be a milestone, confirming the growing strength of the Ekstraklasa compared to the middleweights and powerhouses from Western Europe.