Netherlands - Latvia

In the beginning, there were thoughts that Lithuania was recovering, the results were improving, and almost all of the strongest players were gathered. Malta has always been among the weaker teams, but almost all of them are professionals, and even now I would not compare them to teams like San Marino, Gibraltar, and Liechtenstein.

However, the game between Malta and Finland (0:1) at the beginning of the qualifiers was very memorable to me. It could have ended in a 3-way tie.

A bit of statistics from that game:

xG
Malta 1.85 vs. 1.88 Finland

Ball possession %
Malta 58 vs. 42 Finland

Corner kicks
Malta 6 vs. 3 Finland

Malta is a tough and challenging opponent at home. Lithuania, on the other hand, does not amaze me with their creativity. Malta is the most uncomfortable opponent for us, especially away. I believe it will be a game until the first goal, but the initiative will be on the host's side. Will Lithuania be able to fulfill their chances? I don't think there will be any surprises.

There won't be many goals. My prediction is 0:0 or 1:1.

The English have a very strong team and play very successfully with it, and even their experimental composition is expected to defeat the Andorra team. In recent years, the English have been scoring many goals and keeping their gates dry, even when playing against very strong teams. Andorra is one of the weakest teams in the world, and although they are able to play these days, the English domination is an overwhelming and understandable question of how many goals they will win by.

I am walking with Lithuania today. Although our basketball team is not considered a favorite, in the "football world," Lithuania is seen as a strong contender. Both teams need points and Malta should not close off, although the role will likely be on Lithuania's side and they will need to take advantage of opportunities. It's a shame that Širvys will not be there, but overall I think Lithuania is a more serious team and in such matches, they can only lose if they defeat themselves.