Ahead of Malta’s final Nations League Group D2 match against Andorra, interim head coach Davide Mazzotta and forward Jurgen Degabriele spoke to the media, expressing confidence and a determined mindset despite recent challenges.
Coach Mazzotta: “Max Commitment and Growth Are Key”
Mazzotta acknowledged the disappointment of Saturday’s result but remained positive, emphasizing that the team is united and focused on finishing the campaign strongly. “We are a bit down after Saturday’s result, but the team is in good spirits,” Mazzotta said. “The dream may be over, but our goal is to end the group stage with nine points, equal to Moldova.” He expressed confidence that his players would give their all, fully prepared for a tough challenge against Andorra. “We know Andorra will be aggressive and have nothing to lose. They will try to disrupt our play, steal possession, and make us uncomfortable,” he remarked. “We need to stay focused, quick, and stick to our game plan. We know ourselves and our desire to score.”
On Malta’s continuing struggles to convert chances, Mazzotta remained optimistic. “It’s not just about us; it also depends on how our opponents play,” he said. “Like any team, we’ve had difficulties in front of goal, but we have ideas that we’ve yet to fully implement. These things take time to become automatic.” Mazzotta also expressed his satisfaction with having a full squad available for the upcoming match.
Jurgen Degabriele: “We Want to Finish Strong”
Jurgen Degabriele echoed his coach’s message of determination, emphasizing the importance of finishing the campaign on a high note. “This is a national team game, and like every match, we want to win and finish with nine points,” he said, acknowledging the frustration of being eliminated based on the direct encounter rule.
Reflecting on his personal growth, Degabriele shared that the past year and a half had been mentally tough, but he now feels stronger. “All the frustration was released in the celebration of my first goal,” he confessed.
On his role within the team, Degabriele stressed his desire not only to be selected but to make a significant impact on the pitch. “I can’t control the coach’s decisions, only my own actions. I want to play and will give my best to succeed,” he asserted.
Malta will face Andorra at the National Stadium at 20:45.
