Mexico dominate possession to defeat resilient Lithuania 6-3 in Group B thriller
Mexico opened their Group B campaign with a commanding 6-3 victory over Lithuania on Day 4 of the Oslo 2025 Homeless World Cup, showcasing their technical ability while weathering a spirited fightback from their physically imposing opponents.
From the opening whistle, Mexico established control through patient possession play, moving the ball well against Lithuania's solid defensive structure. Their dominance paid off when number 10 broke the deadlock with a well-taken finish to make it 1-0.
Mexico continued to dictate proceedings, working the ball through every player before number 8 found the bottom right corner to double their advantage. However, Lithuania showed their threat on the counter-attack, with number 9 reducing the deficit to 2-1 with a quick break immediately after Mexico's second goal.
The game opened up as both sides exchanged chances, with Lithuania's goalkeeper producing two excellent saves to prevent Mexico from establishing a commanding lead. Mexico hit the post twice, once from distance, as they created numerous opportunities. Their persistence was rewarded when number 8 struck from the edge of the Lithuania half to make it 3-1.
Lithuania earned a penalty as the half drew to a close, but Mexico's goalkeeper came to the rescue with a crucial save using his feet to preserve their two-goal advantage at the break.
The second half began with Mexico keeping possession in the corner, but Lithuania emerged with renewed attacking intent. Their positive approach was immediately punished as Mexico caught them on the break, with number 11 extending the lead to 4-1.
Lithuania responded immediately, scoring directly from their goalkeeper's distribution to make it 4-2. The deficit was cut further when number 5 surprised the Mexico keeper with a clever outside-of-the-foot finish, bringing the score to 4-3 and setting up a tense finale.
Mexico responded by seeking to regain control, with number 8 completing his hat-trick from distance to make it 5-3. The Mexican striker wasn't finished there, producing the goal of the game as he fooled the Lithuania goalkeeper with a sublime finish to seal a 6-3 victory.
Both sides demonstrated the quality that should see them progress deep into the competition. Mexico's technical skills and ball retention impressed throughout, while Lithuania's defensive resilience and physical approach troubled one of the tournament's standout teams.
Mexico's number 8 was the star performer with his hat-trick, while Lithuania's goalkeeper produced several outstanding saves to keep his team competitive. Mexico celebrated with their vocal supporters, who provided excellent backing throughout the contest.
Words by Lewis McKinlay | Photos by Donnie Nicholson