Poland vs New Zealand: A Bizarre Match Marked by Absurdities

In an unusual football encounter, Poland faced New Zealand on June 19, 1999, during the King’s Cup in Thailand. This tournament was notorious for its lack of organization and the unconventional circumstances surrounding the matches.

Background of the Match

The Polish national team had just returned from a Euro 2000 qualifying match in Luxembourg. Shortly after, they were set to embark on a journey to the Far East for the tournament. Coach Janusz Wójcik faced a significant challenge in assembling his squad due to several players being unavailable. Major Polish clubs like Legia Warsaw and Wisła Kraków refused to release players, as they were engaged in pre-season tours.

Challenges Faced by the Team

• Only a few players, including Igor Sypniewski and Michał Żewłakow, joined the squad.
• Andrzej Kubica missed the flight to Thailand due to a transfer offer.
• Goalkeeper Piotr Lech suffered an injury prior to the match, leaving the team short-staffed.

Absurdities in Gameplay

The match against New Zealand ended in a 0-0 draw, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. This was Poland’s first official penalty shootout at the senior level, as their previous experience with penalties was limited to a youth tournament six years prior.

Pens and Performances

Poland converted five penalties, with standout performances from players like Artur Wichniarek and Maciej Żurawski. New Zealand’s Mark Elrick missed the final penalty, sealing a narrow victory for Poland.

Key Moments and Statistics

• Final score: Poland 0, New Zealand 0 (Germany wins 5-4 on penalties).
• Date of match: June 19, 1999.

Memorable Experiences

Despite the chaotic setup, the Polish squad explored Bangkok and enjoyed local attractions. Player Rafał Szwed shared memories of visiting a crocodile farm and noted the surreal moment of encountering seemingly fake crocodiles that turned out to be very real. The team’s adventure was a mix of football and cultural experiences, marking a significant point in their journeys.

Legacy of the Match

This bizarre encounter with New Zealand remains a unique part of Polish football history. Many of the players, including Szwed, consider their participation as a cherished memory, culminating in a blend of football pride and camaraderie. The squad received medals and a financial bonus for their efforts, further commemorating the occasion.

This match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where pivotal moments can emerge from the most unusual settings.