**2023–24 II liga**
The 2023–24 II liga is the 76th season of the third tier of the Polish football league system. It features a competition among 18 teams vying for promotion to the I liga and to avoid relegation to the III liga. The season follows the traditional format of home and away matches, with the league operating under the governance of the Polish Football Association (PZPN).
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## 2023–24 II liga
The 2023–24 II liga represents the 76th edition of Poland’s third-tier football league and the 16th season since the league was rebranded as II liga in 2008. The competition is organized by the Polish Football Association (PZPN) and serves as a critical step in the Polish football league pyramid, positioned below the I liga and above the III liga.
### Overview
The league consists of 18 teams competing in a double round-robin format, where each club plays every other club twice, once at home and once away, totaling 34 matches per team. The season typically runs from late summer to the following spring, with a winter break due to Poland’s climate.
The primary objectives for participating teams are promotion to the I liga, the second tier of Polish football, and avoiding relegation to the III liga, which is divided into multiple regional groups. The 2023–24 season continues to reflect the competitive balance and regional diversity of Polish football.
### Teams
#### Promotion and Relegation
The composition of the 2023–24 II liga includes teams relegated from the 2022–23 I liga, teams promoted from the 2022–23 III liga, and clubs that remained in the division from the previous season.
– **Relegated from I liga:** The bottom teams from the 2022–23 I liga were relegated to II liga.
– **Promoted from III liga:** The winners of the four III liga groups earned promotion to II liga.
– **Remaining teams:** Clubs that finished in mid-table positions in the previous II liga season retained their place.
This system ensures a dynamic league structure with fresh competition each season.
#### List of Participating Teams
The 18 teams competing in the 2023–24 II liga are:
1. [Team A]
2. [Team B]
3. [Team C]
…
18. [Team R]
(*Note: Specific team names would be listed here based on the official league registration.*)
### Competition Format
The league operates on a points system, awarding three points for a win, one point for a draw, and zero points for a loss. Teams are ranked by total points, with goal difference and goals scored serving as tiebreakers.
– **Promotion:** The top two teams at the end of the season earn automatic promotion to the I liga. Teams finishing 3rd to 6th enter a promotion playoff to determine the third team to be promoted.
– **Relegation:** The bottom four teams are relegated to the III liga.
### Season Schedule
The 2023–24 II liga season commenced in July 2023 and is scheduled to conclude in May 2024. The season includes a winter break from mid-December to late February, accommodating weather conditions and player rest.
### Stadiums and Locations
Each club hosts matches at their home stadium, which vary in capacity and facilities. Stadiums must meet PZPN standards for II liga competition, including pitch quality, seating, and safety measures.
### Management and Governance
The league is overseen by the PZPN, which sets regulations regarding player eligibility, disciplinary actions, and match officiating. The PZPN also coordinates with the Polish Professional Football League (PZPN) for scheduling and broadcasting rights.
### Player Regulations
Clubs in II liga are subject to rules regarding squad composition, including limits on foreign players and requirements for youth player inclusion. These regulations aim to promote the development of Polish talent and maintain competitive balance.
### Statistical Leaders
Throughout the season, individual player statistics such as goals scored, assists, clean sheets, and disciplinary records are tracked. These statistics contribute to awards and recognition at the season’s end.
### Historical Context
II liga has a rich history as a proving ground for clubs aspiring to reach the higher tiers of Polish football. The 2023–24 season continues this tradition, showcasing emerging talents and competitive clubs.
### Impact and Significance
The II liga plays a vital role in the Polish football ecosystem by providing competitive opportunities for clubs outside the top two divisions. Success in II liga can lead to increased visibility, sponsorship, and financial growth for clubs.
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## Meta Description
The 2023–24 II liga is the 76th season of Poland’s third-tier football league, featuring 18 teams competing for promotion to the I liga and to avoid relegation. The season runs from July 2023 to May 2024 under the governance of the Polish Football Association.