Montenegro vs Lithuania
European Championship Qualifying
Thursday
16th November 2023
Podgorica City Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the European Championship Qualifying fixture between Montenegro and Lithuania.
Montenegro vs Lithuania: Preview
Montenegro form analysis
Montenegro’s recent run of European Cup qualifying games has showcased their occasional goal threat but generally limited quality compared to superior opposition. They started solidly by holding Hungary to a goalless home draw despite intense pressure. However, familiar issues surfaced in a 2-2 away draw with Lithuania, twice surrendering the lead despite goals from Paulauskas and Savic. Problems remained evident next game with a disappointing 1-2 home loss to Bulgaria, going ahead through Savic before conceding twice, including late to Jovetic.
There was a better display next up as they dramatically beat Bulgaria 2-1 at home thanks to goals from Savic and a last gasp Jovetic winner. However, Montenegro ended this run with an expected 1-3 home loss to Serbia, going behind early before Jovetic equalized temporarily until Serbia pulled away. Overall, Montenegro has showcased spirit but looked extremely limited technically against higher ranked sides. Significant improvement is still required across the board.
Lithuania form analysis
Lithuania’s recent run of European Cup qualifying games has showcased their occasional goal threat on the counter but also clear limitations in quality. They started with an expected 0-2 home loss to Hungary, unable to contain the visitors’ slick passing and movement. However, Lithuania’s counters worked well next game as they drew 2-2 away in Montenegro, going ahead twice through Paulauskas and Savic before conceding late.
Problems surfaced at both ends in their next match though, well beaten 1-3 at home by Serbia with Paulauskas’ goal scant consolation. Back on track next up, Lithuania earned a vital 2-0 away win in Bulgaria. Thanks to a clinical brace from Širvys. Most recently they battled impressively to draw 2-2 at home with Hungary. Going two up through Černych and Širvys before eventually being pegged back. Overall, Lithuania remains defensively vulnerable but have showcased sporadic threat on the break. Adding greater consistency at both ends is required going forward.
