FK Trakai vs Šiauliai - A Lyga

The A Lyga returns to the home ground on July 27, 2026, where FK Trakai and Šiauliai will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

There is little to choose between FK Trakai and Šiauliai on paper, and the A Lyga encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts are desperate for a lift, with LLLLL in their last five and a win rate of 0% that underscores the size of the task facing them. The visitors arrive short of confidence, L in their last five and a season win rate of just 10.34%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — FK Trakai average 0 per game to Šiauliai's 0.83, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. The promoted side have plans to strengthen in every position, with midfield the priority.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. FK Trakai will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Šiauliai must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. Schalke were third bottom for possession in winning the second tier, let alone facing Bayern.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Michael Carrick has had his critics since taking the Man Utd job in January and some of them are former teammates of the midfielder.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With positions in the A Lyga table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.