Point better than nothing, but we wanted to win against Lithuania, says Jodi Jones

Malta picked up their first point in the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers after holding Lithuania to a 0-0 draw at the National Stadium on Matchday 3.

While the result marked a positive milestone for newly appointed coach Emilio De Leo – his first point in charge and Malta’s first clean sheet of the campaign – it also left a lingering sense of a missed opportunity.

Facing a Lithuania side ranked 23 places above them in the FIFA rankings, Malta were eager to capitalise on home advantage in what many considered a potential six-pointer in the battle to avoid finishing bottom of the group.

However, a lack of cutting edge in front of goal saw Malta fail to score for the third consecutive match, with just one shot on target recorded throughout the 90 minutes.

This came in stark contrast to the performances against Finland and Poland, where De Leo’s side had shown attacking promise and created multiple dangerous opportunities.

The absence of forward Ilyas Chouraef, suspended for this match, was a clear setback. The dynamic attacker had impressed in previous outings, and his ability to stretch defences was sorely missed against a compact Lithuanian backline.

Compounding the challenge were the demanding conditions: a 6pm kick-off in sweltering heat, which seemed to sap energy from the Maltese players.

The first half was particularly tough, as Malta found themselves pinned deep in their own half, struggling to retain possession and lacking precision in transitional moments.

Lithuania, meanwhile, dominated the physical battles and moved the ball with slick combinations in the final third – though they too rarely threatened goalkeeper Henry Bonello.

In the second half, Malta grew into the game and began pushing further upfield.

A key figure in this resurgence was Jodi Jones, who returned to the national team for his 12th cap. The Notts County winger, often double-marked and up against much taller defenders, found it difficult to assert himself early on but became more influential after the break as Malta began finding space in wider areas and moving closer to the Lithuanian box.

“We wanted to win before the game, but after the first half, we knew it was difficult,” said Jones after the match.

“We were better in the second half, had a good chance from a corner kick too. Ultimately, a point is better than nothing.”

Jones also spoke highly of the impact of new coach De Leo: “He is really good, I like him a lot. Very football competent – he wants us to work hard, but that is normal.”

Asked about the looming clash against the Netherlands, Jones remained focused. “Big game, but we were focused on this one because it was important in itself. But we can think of the Netherlands now.”

The Netherlands, group favourites and strong contenders to qualify for the final tournament in North America, will pose an immense challenge when Malta travel to face them tomorrow.

Reflecting on his club future, Jones confirmed plans to return to Notts County. “I think so, I am under contract, so I should join the team a week after they start since I am on international duty.”

Last season, Jones was part of the Magpies squad that suffered play-off heartbreak, losing to AFC Wimbledon and missing out on promotion to League One.

Turning back the focus on the national team, despite the underwhelming result, Malta’s clean sheet and improved second-half showing offer some foundations to build upon.

However, concerns remain about the team’s offensive output, which must improve if they are to be more competitive in this qualifying cycle.