Northern Ireland welcome Lithuania to Windsor Park, Belfast, in Group C of UEFA Qualifying for 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Victory would see Northern Ireland move five points clear of rock-bottom Lithuania, whereas their visitors can climb off the foot of Group C with victory at Northern Ireland’s expense.
Team News
Northern Ireland have no fresh injury concerns to report as Ian Baraclough has a full squad available for selection, as Jamal Lewis returns after he was suspended for last month’s defeat in Bulgaria.
Lithuania also have no fresh injury concerns to report ahead of this match,
Stat Attack
- Northern Ireland are unbeaten in three previous meetings against Lithuania across all competitions (W2, D1).
- Lithuania drew 2-2 in their only previous visit to Northern Ireland in April 1992 in Qualifying for 1994 FIFA World Cup.
- Northern Ireland are winless in their last nine matches at home in all competitions (D4, L5).
- Lithuania are winless in their last six away matches across all competitions (L6).
- This is the first match involving Northern Ireland to be refereed by Istvan Vad.
Prediction
Having endured two disappointing defeats last month, Northern Ireland now have a chance back and finish 2021 on a high with two home qualifiers, although their defending needs to improve to match their impressive attacking after two lapses in focus cost them in Bulgaria.
Lithuania meanwhile were simply shambolic in their home loss to Switzerland last time out with literally motionless defending and slow reactions from their goalkeeper, yet this is their last competitive match of 2021 so I do hope for a reaction here.
My gut instinct however feels that this could be a routine home win if Northern Ireland are able to get on the front foot and maintain focus in defence, especially given the huge progress that Lithuania need just to stand a chance here.
Prediction: Northern Ireland 2-0 Lithuania
Result: Northern Ireland 1-0 Lithuania