Lithuania vs Israel: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
On Thursday, Lithuania will host Israel for an international friendly match at the Darius and Girenas Stadium in Kaunas. This match holds significance for both teams, with Lithuania aiming for their first victory in over 17 months.
Lithuania’s Recent Struggles
Lithuania’s national football team has been in a challenging phase, facing significant struggles on the field. In their last 14 matches, they have recorded 11 losses and three draws. Despite their historical status as an underdog in football, this current streak has deeply affected their morale.
Edgaras Jankauskas, Lithuania’s manager since January 2023, has seen his team win only four out of 28 games. However, there are some positives. Three of their last seven matches ended in draws, one of which was a closely contested qualifier against the Netherlands that ended 3-2.
Team News for Lithuania
As Lithuania prepares for this match, they will be without two seasoned players: Edvinas Girdvainis and Vykintas Slivka, who have a combined total of 136 international caps. However, experienced players like Fedor Cernych and Justas Lasickas remain part of the squad, with Cernych approaching his 102nd cap.
Israel’s Controversial Background
The Israeli national team is no stranger to controversy. Their participation in international football often sparks protests and heated debates in parliament. The upcoming friendly in Kaunas has not escaped this issue, as the match will be played behind closed doors due to security concerns.
Israel’s recent form has also been disappointing, with three consecutive defeats, including two against Italy and a 5-0 loss to Norway. Despite being eliminated from World Cup contention, a solid performance in Lithuania could rejuvenate team morale.
Team News for Israel
Israel will miss key player Manor Solomon due to a back injury. Scoring responsibilities may fall to Dor Turgeman, who has shown promise with three goals in his last club outings. Veteran defender Eli Dasa will lead the team with experience, holding 73 international caps.
Predicted Lineups
Lithuania’s Possible Lineup
- Svedkauskas
- Tutyskinas
- Girvainis
- Beneta
- Sirvys
- Vorobjovas
- Gineitis
- Sirgedas
- Golubickas
- Paulauskas
- Cernych
Israel’s Possible Lineup
- Glazer
- Revivo
- Blorian
- Shlomo
- Dasa
- Turiel
- Gloukh
- Peretz
- Shua
- Turgeman
- Gorno
Match Prediction
This matchup presents both teams with an opportunity to regain confidence. However, with the match occurring in an empty stadium, it may lack the usual intensity. A draw seems likely, with both teams possibly finishing the match at 1-1.
