Lithuania Falls to Last Place in Group G After Malta Upset
Helsinki, Finland – A stunning 1-0 victory by Malta over Finland on Friday has relegated Lithuania to the bottom of Group G in World Cup qualifying. The result dramatically shifts the group dynamic and places increased pressure on Lithuania’s upcoming match against the Netherlands.
the defeat for Finland, coupled with Malta’s first qualifying win since a 2021 victory against Cyprus, leaves Lithuania trailing with just 3 points. This outcome substantially diminishes Lithuania’s already slim hopes of reaching the World Cup and underscores the competitive nature of the qualifying stage. Malta’s win, secured by a late 82nd-minute goal from Jake Grech, propels them to 5 points, surpassing Lithuania in the group standings.
Despite being ranked 72nd in the FIFA rankings, 94 places above Malta (ranked 166th), finland succumbed to the Mediterranean island nation in front of their home crowd. Malta previously earned two points against Lithuania, drawing both encounters 0-0 and 1-1.
Lithuania now faces a daunting challenge in Amsterdam on Monday, needing a win against a strong Dutch side – who previously defeated them 3-2 in Kaunas in September – to climb out of last place. Meanwhile, malta will host Poland on Monday, offering them another opportunity to add to their point total.
