Malta vs Netherlands

The match is a UEFA World Cup 2026 qualifier, taking place on 9 October 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:45 local time (GMT+1). The venue is the Ta’ Qali National Stadium in Malta.

The Netherlands will be missing several players: Mexx Meerdink was called up but withdrew with injury shortly after arriving at the national camp. Memphis Depay also won’t start, reportedly due to a passport issue after returning from Brazil, though he is part of the squad. Some other names absent are Matthijs de Ligt and Noa Lang. On Malta’s side, Paul Mbong and Zach Muscat are suspended; Teddy Teuma has returned from injury; Ryan Camenzuli is also back; but Malta remain thin in attacking options.

Ronald Koeman is expected to set the Netherlands up in a 4-3-3 formation, with emphasis on attacking width and exploiting Malta’s defensive vulnerabilities. With Meerdink out and Depay unlikely to start, Donyell Malen is expected to lead the line up front, supported by wide attackers such as Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons. Malta’s coach Emilio De Leo is preparing a defensive setup (likely 5-4-1 or variants) trying to remain compact, limit space, and frustrate the Dutch attack. Key players like Teddy Teuma and Matthew Guillaumier are expected to be important in defensive midfield to break up play and try to hit on counter-attacks.

Press and preview outlets mostly favour the Netherlands heavily, citing their superior form, depth, and goal-scoring record. Many reports point out Malta’s struggles in world-cup qualification: they have few points, have conceded many goals, and scored little; their last meeting versus the Dutch (8-0) is often mentioned as evidence of how big the gap is between the teams. Some press, however, note that Malta might show more resistance at home and try to frustrate the visitors, and that the Dutch might rotate or not push at full intensity until needed.

Analysts in the studios are focused on several battles: how Malta can maintain defensive discipline and avoid early damage, and how the Netherlands will cope without some of their top starters. There is expectation that the Dutch will dominate possession and territory; that their attacking trio will find chances, especially in the second half; and that goals from set-pieces and crosses may be crucial. The common prediction is for a convincing Netherlands win, possibly by a margin of three or four goals, depending on how ruthless their finishing is and how disciplined Malta remain.

Watch and Download Malta vs Netherlands full match replay and highlights, At Thursday, October 09, 2025. The match played at Ta’ Qali National Stadium, in World Cup Qualifying, UEFA.

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