Lithuania's Rugby Players Face a Tough Challenge Against Germany: VRA Talent Domantas Stravinskas Named in National Team Squad
On October 31, the Lithuanian men's national rugby team begins a new Trophy Division campaign of the European Rugby Championship with a match against one of the group's favorites, Germany. Among Lithuania's top rugby players selected for the squad is Vilnius Rugby Academy graduate Domantas Stravinskas, who will wear the No. 12 jersey.
10/31/2026
On October 31, the Lithuanian men's national rugby team begins a new chapter in the European Rugby Championship Trophy Division. At 2:00 PM, Lithuania will take on one of the strongest teams in the group, Germany, at the Šiauliai Rugby Academy Stadium.
This match carries significance not only because of the standings but also because of its symbolic value. For Lithuania, it will be the first game of a new campaign in the second-highest tier of the European Rugby Championship. Alongside Lithuania and Germany, the division also features Sweden, Malta, Denmark, and the Czech Republic.
Special attention will be on Domantas Stravinskas, who represents Vilnius Rugby Academy. He will play in the No. 12 position for the Lithuanian national team and will be one of the representatives of the capital's rugby clubs in the national squad. We wish Domantas a confident performance and many successful moments on the field wearing Lithuania's colors.
A Serious Opponent Awaits
Germany enters the Trophy Division after being relegated from the highest level of European rugby competition. Lithuania's head coach, Mantvydas Tveraga, emphasizes that the Germans are known for their physical strength, discipline, and well-structured style of play. According to the coach, Lithuania faces a very demanding challenge, but the advantage of playing at home provides extra motivation.
The last meeting between Lithuania and Germany took place in 2021. In that match, played in Šiauliai, Germany secured a 46-16 victory. However, both teams have changed considerably over the past five years, and a much closer contest is expected this time around.
Interestingly, Lithuania played its first-ever official international match against Germany in 1993 during Rugby World Cup qualification.
The Lithuanian coaching staff hopes for strong support from fans in Šiauliai. Rugby has deep traditions in the city, which is widely regarded as the capital of Lithuanian rugby. According to the coaches, home support often provides the team with an extra boost during the most difficult moments of a match.
The October 31 encounter presents a great opportunity for Lithuanian rugby fans to experience European Championship action up close and support the national team at the start of a new season.
Kick-off: 2:00 PM
Venue: Gardino g. 14, Šiauliai
Live stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USE9NHKZO14
