Malta national team manager Emilio De Leo has spoken warmly about the effort and commitment his players showed in Monday’s friendly against Slovakia, as the squad prepares for Friday’s match against Azerbaijan.
Speaking before Malta’s second friendly of the June window, De Leo said the team showed real desire despite losing in the final minutes against Slovakia.
“The difference was how motivated and hungry the players were to put in a good performance,” he said. “Everyone who played gave their all. We made ten changes and every player who came on had the right attitude. Tactically, they gave us a real lift.”
He also pointed to some encouraging displays from younger members of the squad who were given their chance to start.
“We had a couple of young lads making their first starts for the national team. At that point, fitness matters less, what counts is showing how much you want to be there and proving you’re ready to serve the national team.”
De Leo was particularly pleased with the performances of Kean Scicluna and Keyon Ewurum, and also praised substitutes Cannavo and Andrea Zammit for the impact they made when they came on.
Looking ahead, he made clear that places in the squad must be earned. “Any player given an opportunity will get it because they deserve it and can bring something new to the team, not as a favour.”
Scicluna, meanwhile, spoke about the pride of making his first senior start, admitting he was nervous early on but settled into the game well. Despite the late defeat to Slovakia, he felt there were plenty of positives to take away.
Malta face Azerbaijan tonight, at the Haladás Sportkomplexum in Hungary, with kick-off at 20:00.
