Lithuania announce squad for September World Cup qualifiers against Malta and the Netherlands

As the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches draw closer, Lithuania head coach Edgaras Jankauskas has revealed his squad for the upcoming fixtures.

Lithuania will host Malta on September 4 before taking on the Netherlands on September 7, with both matches set to be played in Kaunas.

The announcement brought a few surprises, largely due to the absence of several key players. Kipras Kažukolovas (Astana), Matas Vareika (Pyunik), Pijus Širvys (Maribor), and long-serving midfielder Vykintas Slivka, now playing in Japan’s second division, will all miss out. Another notable absence is Armandas Kučys of NK Celje, who is still recovering and is expected to return to action in February.

In their place, Jankauskas has turned to some fresh and returning faces. The most notable inclusion is Vaidas Magdušauskas, who earns his first-ever call-up. The 21-year-old midfielder has impressed with Banga Gargždai, recording 23 appearances, four goals, and two assists in this season’s A Lyga campaign.

Another player back in the fold is Eligijus Jankauskas, who has been in excellent form for Šiauliai. Vilius Armalas, a standout defender in the A Lyga this season, also returns to the national team setup.

Meanwhile, striker Nauris Petkevičius makes his long-awaited comeback, having last featured for Lithuania in 2022. The Sūduva forward will look to make an impact after a strong run of form at club level.

Lithuanian national team squad for the matches against Malta and the Netherlands:

Goalkeepers