Malouda is set to start for Raymond Domenech's side in the Group B match in Kaunas against a Lithuania side that held World Cup winners Italy 1-1 in Naples earlier in qualifying.

With Scotland leading the group, last year's two World Cup finalists and Germany 2006 quarter-finalists Ukraine all vying for qualification, someone will be disappointed next year.

Malouda, 26, is hoping it will not be the French.

"We are all conscious that a result over there will perhaps make the difference in qualifying," said the Lyon left-winger.

"We have seen Lithuania's result in Italy. It was an eye-opener, so we must forget the status of the two teams.

"But a draw would be a failure. We must not lose any more points on the way."

Spain will also be anxious not to concede any more ground on their rivals when they host Denmark in Madrid.

Luis Aragones and his men have only three points in Group F - leaders Sweden have 12 although they have played one more game while the Danes and Northern Ireland have seven apiece.

"We know that we have to win against Denmark, which will be difficult and complicated, and then to beat Iceland," said goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

"The responsibilities are with us, with the coach and with the fans."

Holland coach Marco van Basten is looking forward to the two matches with Romania and Slovenia, the first in Rotterdam on Saturday and the second away next Wednesday.

"I want to win both matches, especially on Saturday but also Wednesday in Slovenia," Van Basten said.

"It will not be an easy job but we have to prepare ourselves for that."

Germany and the Czech Republic, meanwhile, will clash in a Group D table-topper in Prague.