Cracovia Krakow vs Motor Lublin Match Recap - Nov 22, 2025

Motor Lublin Stuns Cracovia Krakow with Late Surge, Shifting Momentum in Ekstraklasa

Motor Lublin's 2-1 victory over Cracovia Krakow marks a significant turning point for the relegation-threatened side, showcasing their resilience and tactical discipline. After a series of disappointing results, this win not only boosts their confidence but also highlights the ongoing struggles of Cracovia, who have now lost four of their last five matches.

Motor Lublin's recent form has been characterized by a gritty determination to claw their way out of the relegation zone. With only three wins this season prior to this match, they have relied heavily on the attacking prowess of Karol Czubak, who has emerged as a key figure in their offense. Czubak's ability to find the net consistently was evident again today, as he scored the decisive goal in the 83rd minute, capping off a performance that underscores his importance to the team. This victory could serve as a catalyst for Motor Lublin, who now have a chance to build momentum against Legia Warszawa in their next fixture.

Cracovia's recent performances have been a stark contrast to Motor Lublin's resurgence. Despite holding a slight edge in possession (52% to 48%) and passing accuracy (84% to 81%), they failed to convert these advantages into meaningful scoring opportunities. The statistics reveal a troubling trend: Cracovia has struggled to capitalize on their ball control, managing only one shot on target throughout the match. This inability to finish has plagued them in recent weeks, as they have scored just seven goals in their last five outings. The pressure is mounting on Filip Stojilković, who has been unable to replicate his early-season form, leaving Cracovia searching for answers.

The tactical setup of both teams played a crucial role in the outcome. Motor Lublin's 4-1-4-1 formation allowed them to absorb pressure while remaining dangerous on the counterattack. Their defensive unit, led by Ivan Brkić, effectively neutralized Cracovia's attacking threats, limiting them to just five total shots. The visitors capitalized on their chances, with Ivo Rodrigues opening the scoring shortly after halftime, demonstrating the effectiveness of their counterattacking strategy.

Cracovia's defensive frailties were once again exposed, as they conceded two goals despite having a solid possession game. Their backline has been inconsistent, leaking 13 goals over their last five matches. Coach Luka Elsner must address these issues quickly if they hope to remain competitive in the league. The team's lack of cohesion at the back was evident today, as they struggled to deal with Motor Lublin's pace and movement in transition.

The emotional weight of this defeat cannot be understated for Cracovia. Sitting in sixth place with 22 points, they are now at risk of falling further behind in the race for European qualification. Their recent form has raised questions about their ability to compete at a higher level, especially with upcoming fixtures against teams like Korona Kielce that could prove challenging. The pressure is mounting on Elsner and his squad to find a solution before it's too late.

Motor Lublin's victory not only boosts their points tally but also instills a sense of belief within the squad. With draws against stronger opponents like Lech Poznan and now this win against Cracovia, they are beginning to show signs of life in their campaign. The contributions from players like Czubak and Rodrigues will be vital as they look to build on this success and escape the relegation battle.

The contrasting narratives of these two teams highlight the unpredictable nature of football. Motor Lublin's triumph serves as a reminder that even in difficult circumstances, resilience and tactical discipline can lead to success. Meanwhile, Cracovia must confront their shortcomings head-on if they wish to turn their fortunes around and reclaim their place among Poland's elite.

As both teams prepare for their next matches, the stakes remain high. For Motor Lublin, this victory could be the spark they need to ignite a run of form that secures their safety in the league. For Cracovia, it is a wake-up call that demands immediate action if they are to avoid slipping further down the standings. The drama of the Ekstraklasa continues, and both teams will be eager to write the next chapter in their respective stories.