Pogoń Szczecin will play a charity friendly match against Italian side Udinese on Saturday, September 26 at 17:30 CEST. The game is organized to support former player and coach Robert Dymkowski, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2023, as reported by www.udinese.it.
The Ekstraklasa club will host the fixture during the international break, with the majority of proceeds dedicated to Dymkowski's medical care. "All of Pogon plays for Dymka," the club stated. This gesture highlights the football community's solidarity with one of its own during a difficult health battle.
Who is the beneficiary of the match?
Robert Dymkowski is a familiar figure at the Szczecin club, having played for Pogoń in the 1990s and later worked as a coach within the academy setup. His ALS diagnosis in 2023 deeply affected the local football community. Organizing this match is a way for the current team and its supporters to provide tangible support for his ongoing treatment and care. The initiative shows the enduring bonds between the club and its former members.
Why was Udinese chosen as the opponent?
The selection of the Serie A club is not coincidental. Udinese's current head coach, Kosta Runjaic, managed Pogoń Szczecin for five years between 2017 and 2022. His tenure marked one of the most successful periods in the club's recent history, culminating in three consecutive qualifications for the UEFA Europa Conference League. The friendly, therefore, carries a sentimental dimension, offering a reunion with the former manager.
Where does the match fit in Pogoń's schedule?
The game against Udinese falls during a FIFA international window, so it does not disrupt Pogoń's league commitments. It provides a useful opportunity to test tactics and maintain rhythm before the Ekstraklasa resumes. The team's next official fixture is not until November 21, a home match against Śląsk Wrocław. The current fixtures list shows a clear schedule ahead. The squad will be without the sidelined Rajmund Molnár, as noted on our injuries page.
What does this initiative mean for the club?
Beyond the primary goal of raising funds, the match reinforces the values associated with the club from Szczecin. Pogoń is demonstrating that its role extends beyond pitch rivalry to meaningful community engagement. Supporting "Dymka" unites fans, former players, and the full squad in a common cause. The team's next competitive test is the home fixture against Śląsk Wrocław on November 21.
