After 16 years in the wilderness, Poland returned to the World Cup their first appearance since 1986. Jerzy Engel was the man tasked with guiding them back.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 7 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | -1 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 7 | -4 | 3 |
Poland found moments of promise but ultimately fell short of the consistency needed to progress beyond the group stage.
Poland endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a 0-2 defeat against Korea Republic, a heavy 0-4 defeat to Portugal, and a 3-1 win over United States. Despite moments of quality, it was not enough to advance, and Poland's campaign ended at the first round.
1won2lost
3scored7conceded
Failed to score in 2 of 3 matches conceded 7 in 3 matches.
Paweł Kryszałowicz led Poland's attack with 1 goal at the 2002 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Olisadebe and Żewłakow, all with 1.
9yellow
3.0per match
Świerczewski booked twice 4 cards in a single match vs United States.
The tactical mind behind Poland's 2002 campaign. Leading Poland at his first World Cup 1 win, 2 losses under Engel.
Poland employed a defensive strategy with the team's top scorers Paweł Kryszałowicz and Marcin Żewłakow contributing one goal each. Emmanuel Olisadebe scored as well but overall, Poland struggled to score.
