The Daily Star Ireland
Malta and the Netherlands face off in a World Championship 2026 qualifier at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali, with both sides at opposite ends of the footballing spectrum. The Oranje are flying under Ronald Koeman, while Malta are desperate to regain some pride after a bruising start to their campaign. The Dutch have never dropped points against the Maltese, but with home advantage and renewed structure, the hosts will hope to avoid another one-sided scoreline.
Match Preview
Malta’s rebuild under Michele Marcolini continues to show growing pains. Their recent 8–0 defeat in Groningen laid bare their defensive weaknesses and lack of depth, though Marcolini has vowed to respond with tactical adjustments. Expect a tighter 4–2–3–1 setup anchored by Teddy Teuma and Matthew Guillaumier in midfield, while striker Jurgen Degabriele and attacking midfielder Alexander Satariano will be tasked with stretching the Dutch defense on the counter. Malta’s aim will be to frustrate early, remain compact, and rely on set pieces to create danger.
The Netherlands, by contrast, enter this clash full of confidence after consecutive victories over Finland (2–0) and Malta (8–0). Koeman’s side is stacked with attacking power and defensive steel. Memphis Depay continues to lead the line, supported by Xavi Simons’ creativity and Donyell Malen’s pace on the wings. In midfield, Frenkie de Jong pulls the strings, while captain Virgil van Dijk anchors a disciplined backline. The Oranje have scored 12 goals in their last three qualifiers and remain unbeaten in 2025, highlighting their consistency and cutting edge in the final third.
Team Form & Recent Results
Malta (Last 5 matches): L L D L L
Netherlands (Last 5 matches): W W D W W
Malta have conceded 17 goals in their last five outings, managing only two in reply. The Netherlands, on the other hand, have kept four clean sheets in that span while averaging nearly three goals per game.
Head-to-Head Record
The Netherlands have a perfect record against Malta, winning all six of their previous encounters. They’ve scored 27 goals without reply, with the last meeting ending in an 8–0 rout. Malta’s defense has yet to contain the Oranje’s dynamic attack, but home support in Ta’ Qali could provide a morale boost this time.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Malta (4-2-3-1 expected): Bonello – Apap, Pepe, Borg, Muscat – Teuma, Guillaumier – Satariano, Camenzuli, Jones – Degabriele
Unavailable: Montebello (injured)
Netherlands (4-3-3 expected): Verbruggen – Dumfries, De Ligt, Van Dijk, Ake – De Jong, Reijnders, Veerman – Malen, Depay, Simons
Unavailable: Frimpong (doubtful), Koopmeiners (injured)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Malta will depend on organization and counterplay. Teuma’s ability to dictate tempo and Satariano’s direct runs could offer rare chances in transition. However, defensive discipline will be paramount against one of Europe’s most clinical front lines.
For the Netherlands, Koeman’s team thrives on ball control and quick vertical transitions. Simons’ creativity and Depay’s movement between lines often open spaces for overlapping full-backs, while De Jong ensures smooth progression through midfield. Van Dijk’s leadership and aerial dominance make the Dutch difficult to break down.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Full-Time Result: Netherlands (1.08) | Draw (10.00) | Malta (29.00)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 (1.45)
- Both Teams to Score: No (1.40)
Betting insights:
- The Netherlands have kept clean sheets in five straight qualifiers.
- Malta have failed to score in eight of their last nine international matches.
- Over 2.5 goals has landed in four of the last five Netherlands fixtures.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: National Stadium, Ta’ Qali (Malta)
Date & Time: October 9, 2025 – 19:45 CET / 18:45 GMT
Broadcast: ESPN (Europe), Ziggo Sport (Netherlands), UEFA.tv
Prediction: Malta vs Netherlands, World Championship 2026 Qualifiers
The Netherlands enter this fixture with clear superiority in every department. Malta may tighten up after their previous humiliation, but the gap in technical quality remains enormous. Expect Koeman’s men to control proceedings from start to finish, creating numerous chances through their fluid front line. A comfortable win for the Oranje feels inevitable, though Malta’s effort should earn them some redemption on home turf.
