WARSAW, March 21 (Xinhua) -- Robert Lewandowski's late goal helped Poland to a 1-0 win over Lithuania in their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Warsaw on Friday.

The host had more possession from the beginning but couldn't create many chances. The absence of Inter Milan players Piotr Zielinski and Nicola Zalewski due to injury had a negative impact on the performance of Michal Probierz's team, while Lithuania defended well in a goalless first half.

In the 71st minute the visitor had an excellent chance to break the deadlock, but Giedrus Matulevicius couldn't beat goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski from close range.

Poland responded in the best possible way. In the 81st minute, Jakub Kaminski passed to Lewandowski from the left wing, and a low shot by Poland's captain surprised goalkeeper Edvinas Gertmonas to put the host ahead.

In the closing stages, Lithuania attacked to find an equalizer but fell short.

Lithuania will host Finland next Monday, while Poland continues to play at home against Malta. Enditem

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