As Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers heats up, Lithuania welcomes Malta to Kaunas in what already feels like a must-win clash for both sides. This battle between the bottom two teams carries enormous significance, particularly for Lithuania, which is still chasing its dream of a maiden World Cup finals appearance.
Match Preview: Current Form and Stakes
Lithuania entered the qualifiers as outsiders, and their struggles have continued, with no wins from their first three games (D2, L1). Sitting at least four points adrift of the leading contenders, Edgaras Jankauskas’ men must secure three points here to stay alive in the race. Encouragingly, they fought back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 against Finland in Kaunas last time, showing resilience and spirit.
However, nine defeats in their last 11 outings (D2) highlight the uphill battle they face. This fixture, against the group’s lowest-ranked side, is one they simply cannot afford to squander.
Malta, meanwhile, remain rooted to the bottom, with their only point coming against Lithuania in June’s reverse fixture (0-0). Goal-shy and leaky at the back, the Maltese have failed to score in their four qualifiers so far, while conceding 11 goals, which is among the worst defensive records in Europe. Historically, their WCQ record makes for grim reading: just three wins across 116 games (D13, L100).
Head-to-Head Record
Lithuania has the edge historically in this fixture:
- Lithuania is unbeaten in three WCQs against Malta (W1, D2).
- The last meeting ended in a goalless stalemate in June.
- Lithuania’s most recent win came in October 2016 (2-0), with Fedor Černych on the scoresheet.
Key Stats and Trends
- Only three of Lithuania’s last 11 WCQs have seen both teams score.
- Lithuania has failed to score in four of its last five matches.
- Malta is without a goal in five consecutive games.
- None of Malta’s last ten internationals have seen both teams score.
With both sides struggling to find the net, goals are likely to come at a premium in Kaunas.
Players to Watch
- Fedor Černych (Lithuania): A key figure in attack, he recently scored for Kauno Žalgiris at this very stadium. He also netted against Malta in their 2016 meeting.
- Kyrian Nwoko (Malta): Known for fast starts, all four of his international goals have been the opening strikes, three inside the first 15 minutes.
- Irvin Cardona (Malta): Recently committed to Malta, he could provide a much-needed attacking spark in the absence of the injured Teddy Teuma.
Team News
- Lithuania: Missing Armandas Kučys, among others.
- Malta: Irvin Cardona is a new addition, but Teddy Teuma’s injury is a big blow.
Betting Insight
Both teams have shown severe attacking limitations, and their June encounter ended in a goalless draw. The numbers strongly suggest a low-scoring affair.
Best Bet: Both Teams Not to Score (BTTS – No) ✅
Alternative Value: Under 2.5 Goals
Final Prediction
With neither side convincing in front of goal, this clash is unlikely to be a thriller. Lithuania, however, boasts more attacking quality and home advantage. Expect them to edge it narrowly.
Prediction: Lithuania 1-0 Malta
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