National Stadium approved for first match

The much-delayed inaugural game comes after a string of setbacks at the stadium. The arena is set to ultimately serve as the main Polish venue of Euro 2012 this June, which Poland is co-hosting with Ukraine.

After the stadium was launched with a gala concert on 29 January, an 11 February game between Polish premier league sides Legia Warszawa and Wisla Krakow was cancelled at the last minute, owing to security concerns. At the time, Warsaw's municipal police cited problems with the communications system.

Over the last few days, however, additional radio transmitters have been installed, improving the network. “We are now connected throughout the stadium,” said Maciej Karczynski, a spokesman for the municipal police, at a press conference on Tuesday.

Warsaw's mayor added that for the time being, the stadium will not be used to host league matches, but that international games may go ahead. The opening match of Euro 2012 will be held on 8 June at the Warsaw stadium. (nh)

Source: IAR / Audio by reporter Danuta Isler

Mayor of Warsaw Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz (R) and Maciej Karczynski, a spokesman for the municipal police (L) during press briefing. Photo: PAP/Paweł Kula

Cover: Legia Warszawa supporters protest the decision to move the Legia - Wisla game. PAP Leszek Szymański