Raków Częstochowa opened their 2026 pre-season campaign with a confident 2-0 victory over Puszcza Niepolomice in a behind-closed-doors friendly at their training centre. The match, played under warm July conditions, gave both sides a chance to test fitness and tactical shape ahead of the new season. Raków, fresh from their top‑half finish in the previous Ekstraklasa campaign, dominated possession from the outset and created the better chances.

First-half control

The home side took the lead midway through the first half when a well‑worked corner was met by a powerful header from central defender Milan Ristić. The goal came after sustained pressure, with Puszcza struggling to clear their lines. Raków's midfield trio controlled the tempo, and the forwards pressed high, forcing several turnovers in dangerous areas.

Second-half seal

Raków doubled their advantage shortly after the restart. A slick passing move down the right flank ended with a low cross that Bartosz Nowak slotted home from close range. Puszcza, who will compete in the I liga this season, showed resilience but rarely threatened the Raków goal. The clean sheet will please head coach Dawid Szwarga, who used the match to give minutes to several fringe players and academy prospects.

Key takeaways

• Defensive solidity: Raków’s backline looked organised, with new signing Mateusz Polak impressing on his unofficial debut.
• Midfield dominance: The trio of Wahan Bičachčjan, Gustav Berggren and Peter Barath controlled the middle of the park.
• Puszcza’s fitness work: The away side created one clear chance in the 70th minute, but goalkeeper Vladan Kovačević saved comfortably.

The result gives Raków a positive start to their pre‑season schedule, with tougher tests expected in the coming weeks as they prepare for the Ekstraklasa opener.