On September 4, Lithuania will face Malta in a Group G European qualifier for the 2026 World Cup. Here’s a look at both teams and what to expect from the match.
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Match preview
The Lithuanian national team aims for better organization in 2025 compared to previous years and shows some improvement, although their results have been average. In the World Cup qualifiers, Lithuania has had close matches: a goalless draw with Malta, a narrow loss to Poland (0-1), and an entertaining 2-2 draw with Finland. They currently sit fourth with two points from three games. In a recent friendly, they lost heavily to Denmark (0-5).
Lithuania plays with a strong defense and quick attacks along the flanks. Their strategy is to dominate the midfield and play rapidly during transitions. Their strengths include set pieces and physical exchanges, where they often excel. However, they struggle with creating opportunities during structured attacks.
Malta, considered an underdog in these qualifiers, has shown determination. So far, they have earned only one point: a draw with Lithuania (0-0), alongside losses to Finland (0-1), Poland (0-2), and a tough defeat to the Netherlands (0-8), placing them last in the group.
Malta adopts a cautious approach, emphasizing defense and risk minimization. Their tactics feature a deep defensive setup and attempts to exploit errors from opponents. Offensively, they rely on long passes and the speed of their forwards. However, they usually face pressure from stronger teams and seldom create scoring opportunities.
Probable line-ups
Lithuania: Gertmonas, Upstas, Kazukolovas, Utkus, Tutishkinas, Vorobjovas, Gineitis, Lasickas, Slivka, Dolzhnikov, Paulauskas
Malta: Bonello, Corbalan, Menz, Carragher, Camenzuli, Guillame, Satariano, Teuma, Overend, Mbong J, Mbong P.
Match facts and head-to-head
- In five encounters, Lithuania has two wins, Malta one, and there have been two draws.
- Lithuania has not won in their last 11 matches.
- Malta has not scored in their last five games.
Prediction
Lithuania is improving and should secure their first win in this qualification campaign. If not against Malta, then when? My prediction: Lithuania to win at 2.1
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