48th Tricity Derby in Gdynia: Arka Fights to Break the Curse in the Ekstraklasa

The upcoming 48th Tricity Derby is electrifying all of Pomerania, though it will be played under specific conditions. Arka Gdynia hosts Lechia Gdańsk at their own stadium, but without the participation of an organized group of away fans, a consequence of imposed travel bans. For the team from Gdynia, this match has a symbolic dimension – despite years of rivalry, Arka has never managed to defeat Lechia in Ekstraklasa matches. Coach Dawid Szwarga emphasizes that the key to success will be a cool head and precise execution of tactical plans, not just aggressive physical play. The hosts' squad situation is complicated by the absence of Michał Marcjanik, a key defender who must sit out due to yellow cards. Controversy surrounds the state of the pitch at the Gdynia venue, which the players themselves describe as a lottery. The hosts' goalkeeper, Damian Węglarz, warns that the ball may behave unpredictably in the penalty area, promoting randomness over technical skill. Meanwhile, Lechia's coach, John Carver, suggests in the media that the rivals may be preparing tactical surprises. Preparations for the match are also associated with major logistical difficulties in Gdynia, particularly in the Witomino district, where changes to road traffic organization have been introduced. An added spice is the planned presence of Karol Nawrocki, head of the IPN and a presidential candidate, who has openly supported Arka for years. The beginnings of the derby rivalry date back to 1964, and its intensity grew rapidly in the 1970s and 1980s. This clash has grown into the most important sporting event on the Coast, dividing families and workplaces into two feuding camps, which has become a permanent part of the regional identity of Pomerania. Simultaneously in the 23rd round of the Ekstraklasa, fans' eyes are turned to Upper Silesia, where GKS Katowice will face Górnik Zabrze. In contrast to the Tricity, the clubs there have focused on building an atmosphere of mutual respect, organizing pre-match meetings and joint conferences. Despite the lack of an official 'friendship' between the fans, officials promote a stance of solidarity above divisions. The entire round promises to be one of the most intense of the season, combining the fight for prestige in local agglomerations with the brutal battle for points in the league table, where any slip-up could cost a position in the race for European cups or safe survival. „I wouldn't be surprised if Arka were up to something.” — John Carver