Meridianbet Match Focus: Malta are gearing up for one of their toughest fixtures of the campaign as they host Netherlands in the European World Cup Qualifiers on 9 October at Ta’ Qali.
The Reds enter this match with confidence after a 3-1 friendly win against San Marino, where Irvin Cardona, Zach Muscat and Paul Mbong found the net early to seal a comfortable victory. But the challenge ahead is on another level.
The Netherlands arrive in superb form, scoring 19 goals in their last six matches and winning 2-3 away to Lithuania in their most recent qualifier. In their previous encounter against Malta in June, the Oranje dominated with an 8-0 victory, including a brace from Memphis Depay.
📊 Meridianbet Odds show the Dutch as overwhelming favourites, with Netherlands to win priced at 1.05, a draw at 13.00, and Malta’s victory at a massive 35.00. For value seekers, over 3.5 goals or a Netherlands handicap bet could be strong options, listed at 1.78
(The odds may change since quotas are variable.)
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Tactical Notes
Malta will rely on a compact defensive setup to contain the Dutch attack and look to hit on the counter. Coach Emilio De Leo is expected to bring back Kurt Shaw and Gabriel Mentz to solidify the backline. Meanwhile, the Netherlands could rotate slightly but will still field a dangerous attacking unit led by Memphis Depay.
Prediction
Given the recent history, Netherlands are strong favourites. A 0-2 or 0-3 scoreline seems most likely, but Malta will aim to make their mark on home soil.
Meridianbet is licensed by the MGA. License number: MGA/B2C/134/2007. Play responsibly. For help, visit www.rgf.org.mt. Players must be over 18 and terms and conditions apply. The odds may change since quotas are variable.
