The Lithuanian national football team touched down in Helsinki on Wednesday, settling into the Finnish capital with one goal in mind – to deliver a strong performance in Thursday night’s FIFA World Cup qualifier against Finland.
Lithuania’s preparation carries a quiet confidence, shaped by their previous meeting with Finland in Kaunas. That game tested their resilience and belief, lessons head coach Edgaras Jankauskas hasn’t forgotten.
“The key takeaway from that match was self-belief and character,” Jankauskas explained during the pre-match press conference. “It was tough – we suffered early on – but we found a way to turn the tide. That showed what this team is capable of.”
Finland’s fast and aggressive start in the first encounter is something the coach and his players expect to face again.
“They’ll probably come at us with the same intensity,” Jankauskas noted. “We need to be switched on from the first minute and avoid making the same mistakes. The opening battles will set the tone for everything else.”
For Lithuania, those “small battles” – winning duels, pressing intelligently, and staying composed – could be the difference between chasing the game and controlling it.
“If we win those moments, we’ll control possession, build our confidence, and create chances in their half,” said the coach. “We’ve already shown we can attack well. Now it’s about maturity, balance, and courage.”
Adding extra fuel to the team’s determination is a wave of traveling support – a full train of Lithuanian fans heading north to back their team.
“That means so much to the players,” Jankauskas admitted. “We know they’ll be right behind us. That kind of energy can make a real difference.”
However, the buildup hasn’t been without setbacks. Goalkeeper Edvinas Gertmonas suffered a muscle tear during training and will miss the match.
“It’s a big loss,” Jankauskas acknowledged. “But we have depth, and someone else will step up. That’s part of football.”
There was more encouraging news surrounding Gvidas Gineitis. Although he hasn’t had much playing time recently in Italy, the midfielder has impressed in training and looks ready for action.
“Gvidas is a true professional,” said the coach. “I don’t think his form has dropped significantly. He’s worked hard, and I have full confidence in him.”
Thursday’s clash is just the first of two crucial fixtures for Lithuania this week. On Sunday, the team returns home to face Poland at the Darius and Girėnas Stadium in Kaunas, where an electric atmosphere is expected.
