Calendar page: 21 years ago Wisła defeated Schalke 4-1

21 years ago – on December 10, 2002 – the White Star defeated Schalke 4-1 in the return match of the third round of the UEFA Cup in Gelsenkirchen. Wisła's goals were scored by Maciej Żurawski (2), Kalu Uche and Kamil Kosowski, and the match is considered one of the best played by Polish teams in European competitions.

Exactly 21 years ago, Wisła Kraków played one of their most thrilling matches in European competition. At the Arena Auf Schalke, in front of over 50,000 spectators, the White Star crushed the hosts 4-1! This was in the third round of the UEFA Cup. At home, Wisła drew 1-1, which, on the one hand, was a good result against a strong opponent, but on the other... left them wanting more! The rematch was a dream come true for Kraków fans.

On December 10, 2002, Wisła displayed top-class football. Kamil Kosowski and Maciej Żurawski displayed remarkable skill in the 40th minute of the match, with both the former's cross and the latter's shot phenomenal. Wisła couldn't maintain the lead, as Tomasz Hajto quickly capitalized on a weak moment in the Kraków defense. However, the White Star performed masterfully in the second half. They effectively neutralized Schalke's attacks and launched their own attacks. In the 51st minute, Kalu Uche gave Wisła the lead again with a clever header, and Żurawski and Kosowski secured the lead again late in the game. The former coolly capitalized on an interception on the edge of the penalty area, while Kosowski completed a brilliantly executed counterattack. Kosa, while his shots were in flux, were indispensable, as Frank Rost saved the initial shot, but a header was inevitable.

Wisła's phenomenal performance secured the White Star's advancement to the UEFA Cup Round of 16. It's no wonder the match is also considered one of the best performances by a Polish team in European competition.