Malta head coach Emilio De Leo has urged his players to show greater intensity and impose themselves from the opening minute when they face Gibraltar in Thursday’s UEFA Nations League match at Ta’ Qali.
Malta are looking to build on their victory over Andorra, but De Leo warned that Gibraltar’s performance against the same opponents on Sunday showed why his side must approach the fixture with respect.
“We have studied Gibraltar and we have to approach this game with humility. They caused Andorra a lot of problems in their last match, so we know what kind of challenge we are facing,” he said.
Speaking alongside forward Irvin Cardona at the pre-match press conference, De Leo stressed that Malta must improve their own performance while containing Gibraltar’s threats.
“We need to limit their ability, but at the same time we have to look at ourselves and show what was missing against Andorra. We need more intensity.”
The coach wants Malta to take control early and maintain their tempo throughout the contest.
“We need to show personality and present the best version of Malta from the first minute. This is an opportunity to extend the gap in the standings,” he said.
“They are a team that tries to play and they have good talent. We cannot fall into the trap of lowering the rhythm.”
De Leo also praised the squad’s collective contribution during the international window, noting that every player had been involved across the two matches played so far.
He described the atmosphere in training and within the camp as very positive, while insisting that everyone must be ready to contribute.
“The whole group knows that they have to be available and give their input. The satisfaction for a coach is when everyone finds their direction and understands what they have to do for the team.”
Cardona, meanwhile, said securing another victory mattered more than adding to his own goals tally.
Asked whether scoring for Malta would boost his confidence, the forward said his immediate focus was entirely on international duty.
“Scoring can help with confidence, but every striker wants to score and gain confidence. However, the victory is the most important thing. We are not here for our personal statistics.”
Malta face Gibraltar at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali on Thursday, 1 October, with kick-off at 20:45.
