Lithuania vs Kosovo Prediction, Match Preview & Betting Tips, October 12, 2024
The UEFA Nations League C match featuring Lithuania and Kosovo promises a thrilling showdown on October 12, 2024. This clash is set to take place at the Dariaus Ir Gireno Stadium in Kaunas. With both teams gearing up for this crucial encounter, the stakes are high. Lithuania, struggling at the bottom of their group, aims to secure their first point. Meanwhile, Kosovo sits comfortably mid-table with 3 points and looks to boost their standing with another victory.
Lithuania Recent Performance
Lithuania has faced a challenging journey with recent results in the UEFA Nations League C. They suffered losses against Romania (1-3) and Cyprus (0-1), but a clean 2-0 victory over San Marino recently lifted their spirits. They’ve managed two wins and endured three losses in their last five games, scoring 8 goals while conceding 9. Defensively, they have kept two clean sheets.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Lithuania | San Marino | 2-0 |
| Lithuania | Malta | 3-1 |
| Lithuania | Romania | 1-3 |
| Lithuania | Cyprus | 0-1 |
| Lithuania | Gibraltar | 1-0 |
Coach Edgaras Jankauskas faces the task of steering the team out of their current slump. Their first challenge is to transfer their sporadic friendly successes into the more competitive league.
Lithuania Key Players
For Lithuania, Armandas Kucys stands out as their top goal-scorer, having found the net once this campaign. In defense, Edvinas Gertmonas plays a crucial role in maintaining stability. The midfield responsibilities fall on Modestas Vorobjovas, who adds creativity and control, while Vykintas Slivka focuses on creating scoring opportunities. Defensively, the team relies on Artemijus Tutyskinas to anchor the backline.
Players like Justas Lasickas also provide valuable experience and leadership, offering guidance on the field.
Lithuania Suspensions & Injuries
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Edgaras Utkus | Strain Injury | Doubtful |
| Suspensions | None reported |
Edgaras Utkus’s absence due to a strain injury could mean tactical adjustments are needed. This situation might require the coach to be flexible in adapting formations and making critical in-game decisions based on pre-match evaluations.
Lithuania Tactics and Formation
Lithuania is expected to field a 4-4-2 formation, transitioning as needed depending on player availability. Their strategy will likely focus on defensive solidity to counter Kosovo’s offensive threats. Central midfielders Modestas Vorobjovas and Vykintas Slivka will dominate the midfield, controlling tempo and aiding transitions into attack. Quick counter-attacks will aim to capitalize on Kucys’ scoring prowess. Defensively, their strategy will focus on maintaining cohesion and limiting space to hinder Kosovo’s advances.
Kosovo Recent Performance
Kosovo has shown resilience despite some inconsistency. A dominant 4-0 win over Cyprus recently boosted their confidence. In their last five games, they have secured two wins and suffered three losses, scoring 5 goals and conceding 8, with two clean sheets.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Kosovo | Cyprus | 4-0 |
| Kosovo | Romania | 0-3 |
| Kosovo | Gibraltar | 1-0 |
| Kosovo | Swiss | 1-1 |
| Kosovo | Israel | 0-1 |
They were eliminated from the Euro 2024 qualifiers after a 1-1 draw with Switzerland. Under new head coach Franco Foda, Kosovo is keen to integrate fresh strategic changes.
Kosovo Key Players
Vedat Muriqi remains a key figure, even while managing fitness concerns, though his participation is uncertain. Defense sees support from Amir Rrahmani’s experience, while Milot Rashica injects creativity in attack. In the midfield, Elvis Rexhbecaj shows versatility, and Valon Berisha offers depth and leadership. Florent Hadergjonaj will be vital in countering Lithuania’s offensive threats, and Visar Bekaj’s goalkeeping will be crucial for maintaining clean sheets.
Kosovo Suspensions & Injuries
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Vedat Muriqi | Hamstring | Doubtful |
| Ismajl Beka | Long-term Injury | Out |
| Betim Fazliji | Long-term Injury | Out |
| Bernard Berisha | Out until February 2025 | Out |
Injuries to key players like Muriqi could lead to tactical shifts, especially in attack. The long-term absences of defenders Ismajl Beka and Betim Fazliji require reshuffling in defense, increasing pressure on available substitutes to fill in effectively.
Kosovo Tactics and Formation
Kosovo might opt for either a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, prioritizing adaptability based on game developments. Expect early pressing to disrupt Lithuania’s defense, seeking a quick advantage. A strong midfield led by Valon Berisha will dictate play, with Rashica and Florent Hadergjonaj exploiting the wings for rapid buildup. Defensive organization is vital to counter Lithuania’s counter-attacks. Player roles may be adapted if key strikers like Muriqi are unavailable.
Lithuania vs Kosovo Head-to-Head Statistics
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Lithuania | Kosovo | 0-4 (Mar 2021) |
These teams last met in March 2021, with Kosovo achieving a dominant 4-0 victory in a friendly. This history suggests Kosovo might repeat their success. However, competition levels are high, and circumstances could change that narrative. Both sides know the importance of securing UEFA Nations League points, learning from past encounters. Lithuania will need to withstand Kosovo’s aggressive attacks, while Kosovo aims to exploit their offensive strengths against Lithuania’s defense.
Venue and Weather
The game takes place at the Dariaus Ir Gireno Stadium, known for its intimate atmosphere, potentially favoring the home team. Weather forecasts suggest clear skies and mild temperatures around 11.86°C, ideal for engaging play from both teams. Calm wind conditions are conducive to technical play, allowing both sides to stick to their strategies. Given this, both Lithuania and Kosovo might opt for bold offensive strategies, looking to take advantage of any weaknesses for a critical win.
Lithuania vs Kosovo Prediction & Betting Tip
- Prediction: Kosovo to win
- Odds: 1.85 – 1.91
- Suggested Bet: Kosovo to win
| Lithuania vs Kosovo Prediction | Odds |
|---|---|
| Betting Tip | Odds |
| Kosovo to win | 1.85 |
Analyzing the matchup, Kosovo appears the stronger contender. Their previous success against Cyprus and Lithuania’s ongoing struggles in recent group matches make Kosovo the favorite. The betting odds reflect confidence in Kosovo’s stronger position and strategic edge under fresh management.
Lithuania vs Kosovo Odds
The betting odds illustrate Kosovo as the favored team. With odds ranging from 1.85 to 1.91 for a Kosovo victory, they possess a clear advantage. Conversely, Lithuania’s odds for an upset are significantly lower, reflecting their recent struggles. A draw presents moderate odds, indicating a potentially competitive matchup.
| Lithuania vs Kosovo Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Kosovo Win | 1.85 – 1.91 |
| Draw | Moderate |
| Lithuania Win | Lower |
Given favorable weather, fans should anticipate dynamic performances from both teams, possibly leading to thrilling and unpredictable moments on the field.
