Polish Cup Classic: Olimpia Grudziadz 3–3 Swit Szczecin – Visitors Advance on Penalties
The Polish Cup found one of its wildest nights of the season on August 5, 2026, as Olimpia Grudziadz and Swit Szczecin shared a breathtaking 3–3 draw over 120 minutes. With neither side able to find a winning goal in extra time, the tie was decided from the penalty spot, where Swit Szczecin triumphed 5–4 and sealed their place in the next round of the knockout competition.
A Cup Tie Full of Twists
Swit Szczecin looked to be in control after taking a seventh-minute lead through a well-worked free-kick routine. But Olimpia Grudziadz, backed by a full house, responded well and leveled on 22 minutes. The pattern repeated after the half-hour mark: Swit went ahead once again, and Olimpia again dragged themselves level before the interval, sending both teams into the dressing room at 2–2.
The second half was just as frantic. Swit restored their lead just after the hour mark with a sweeping counterattack, and for a moment looked poised to close the game out. But Olimpia Grudziadz threw everything forward and found a dramatic equalizer in the 87th minute, sending the match into extra time. The additional 30 minutes produced few clear-cut chances, as fatigue and caution crept in, taking the tie to the emotional climax of penalties.
Key Moments
- 7' — GOAL (0–1): Swit Szczecin score from a well-rehearsed set-piece.
- 22' — GOAL (1–1): Olimpia Grudziadz equalize.
- 36' — GOAL (1–2): Swit regain the lead.
- 44' — GOAL (2–2): Olimpia bag a late first-half equalizer.
- 62' — GOAL (2–3): Swit take a third lead through a counterattack.
- 87' — GOAL (3–3): Olimpia Grudziadz force extra time with a dramatic finish.
- Penalty shootout: Swit Szczecin win 5–4 after Olimpia miss their fourth penalty.
Emotional Blade
The match will be remembered for Olimpia Grudziadz's refusal to give up and for Swit Szczecin's composure in front of goal. For the visitors, goalkeeper Dawid Małecki was the hero, saving the decisive spot-kick. The home side were left to wonder what might have been, but a performance of such heart bodes well for the remainder of their domestic campaign.