Poland’s women’s football team has secured their first-ever senior-level European Championship berth, marking a historic milestone for the sport in the country. After decades of waiting and achieving success only at the youth level, the team clinched their spot at Euro 2025 in Switzerland by defeating Austria in a dramatic two-leg playoff.
TAK! TAK! TAK! Reprezentacja Polski kobiet awansuje pierwszy raz w historii na Mistrzostwa Europy! 🤩
— Łączy nas piłka kobieca (@laczynaskobieca) December 3, 2024
JESTEŚCIE WIELKIE! 👏👏#CzasNaNasząHistorię
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FT #AUTPOL 🇦🇹🇵🇱 0:1 pic.twitter.com/JsqC4bWDxt
A Triumph Against the Odds
The Polish side, led by coach Nina Patalon, entered the playoffs as underdogs against a formidable Austrian team. However, they delivered a stunning performance, winning both matches 1–0. Natalia Padilla-Bidas scored the decisive goal in Gdańsk, while Ewa Pajor secured victory in Vienna on her 28th birthday. The scenes of joy following the final whistle symbolized a breakthrough moment for Polish women’s football.
Growing Momentum for Women’s Football
Women’s football is gaining momentum in Poland, with record attendance of 8,449 fans at a recent match in Gdańsk. Stars like Ewa Pajor, now leading FC Barcelona, are inspiring new generations and driving interest in the sport. This historic qualification is expected to elevate its profile even further.
Eyes on Switzerland
While not favorites, the Polish team’s mere presence at Euro 2025 is a moment of pride. Their journey inspires hope for a brighter future for women’s football in Poland.