Lithuania’s national team will kick off their 2026 campaign on Thursday with a friendly match against Moldova at the Zimbru Stadium in Chișinău. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:00 Baltic time.
Under head coach Edgaras Jankauskas, Lithuania enter the match looking to end a difficult run of 17 consecutive games without a win. The fixture against Moldova presents an opportunity to reset momentum and begin the year on a more positive note – something increasingly important as pressure builds on the coaching staff.
According to reports, two clear objectives have been set for 2026: to win the Baltic Cup and to top their UEFA Nations League D group, where Lithuania will face Liechtenstein and Azerbaijan later this year.
Jankauskas named his squad last week for the current international window, which includes not only the trip to Moldova but also a home fixture against Georgia in Kaunas just days later. That match could feature one of Europe’s most in-form stars, as Paris Saint-Germain winger and Champions League winner Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is expected to be part of the Georgian squad.
The current Lithuania squad also introduces several new faces. Three potential debutants have received their first call-ups, including defender Žygimantas Baltrūnas from Sūduva and Germany-based midfielder Lukas Michelbrink, who plays for Energie Cottbus. Forward Meinardas Mikulėnas was added late to the squad following an injury to Paulius Golubickas.
A major boost for the team is the return of one of its key attacking players, Armandas Kučys. The 23-year-old forward missed a significant portion of last season due to injury, having last featured for the national team nearly a year ago – scoring but also getting injured in a match against Finland. Since returning to action at club level with Celje, Kučys has scored six goals in 12 matches, despite a recent four-game scoring drought.
Speaking ahead of the match, Jankauskas confirmed that the squad is fully fit and ready after several days of preparation in Moldova. “All players are healthy and prepared. We had time to work together, get a feel for the pitch, and manage physical loads after weekend matches. I think we’ve used our time well,” the coach said.
He also highlighted the importance of Kučys’ return to the team. “The team knows what he brings – his ability to hold up the ball gives confidence to everyone. We will try to make the most of his presence, but we don’t expect him to solve everything alone.”
Defender Pijus Širvys echoed the coach’s message, emphasizing the importance of starting the year with a win. “These are matches we need to win to prove we are the stronger team. We’re not focusing on the winless streak – the mood in the squad is good. We’ve missed being together and want to start the year positively,” he said.
After the Moldova match, Lithuania will return home to face Georgia in Kaunas.
Source: https://www.lff.lt/rinktine-pasitinka-pirmaji-metu-testa-laika-isnaudojome-gerai-ir-esame-pasirenge/
