Malta and Moldova meet on Sunday in a crucial UEFA Nations League clash, with both sides vying for automatic promotion from League D Group 2. After Moldova won their previous encounter and secured another victory over Andorra earlier this week, Malta finds themselves trailing by three points and seeking redemption without a permanent manager.
Match Preview:
Malta heads into this game under interim management, following the dismissal of Michele Marcolini. The Maltese side is determined to keep their promotion hopes alive after a mixed Nations League campaign. They suffered a 2-0 defeat in their opening match against Moldova but bounced back with a crucial 1-0 win over Andorra, thanks to a first-half goal from Ryan Camenzuli.
Despite their struggles, Malta still has a chance to finish second in the group, which would secure a playoff spot. However, they face a stern test against Moldova, who have proven tough to beat, with Malta winning only once in their last six meetings.
Moldova, on the other hand, have displayed strong form throughout the campaign. Although they narrowly missed out on Euro 2024 qualification, the Tricolorii have shown their potential, particularly with their upset win over Poland in the qualifiers. Their most recent victory, a 2-0 triumph over Andorra, keeps them in control of their promotion destiny. A win on Sunday would guarantee Moldova a spot in League C for the next Nations League cycle.
Team News:
Malta:
Interim coach Davide Mazzotta faces a tough task in his first competitive match, especially without much preparation time after the cancellation of a scheduled friendly against Turkmenistan. Malta will rely heavily on Reims midfielder Teddy Teuma to orchestrate play in midfield, while experienced goalkeeper and captain Henry Bonello will lead the defense. The squad also features young talents like uncapped defender Mattias Ellul, as Malta looks to blend experience with youth.
Possible Malta starting lineup:
Bonello; J. Borg, Muscat, Shaw; Zammit Lonardelli, J. Mbong, Guillaumier, Teuma, Camenzuli; P. Mbong, Montebello
Moldova:
Moldova will be without their top scorer Ion Nicolaescu, who has withdrawn due to injury. Head coach Serghei Clescenco will likely turn to Vitalie Damascan to lead the attack, supported by Mihail Caimacov and Artur Ionita on the wings. Despite Nicolaescu’s absence, Moldova remains a formidable opponent, boasting a solid defense and midfield, which has been key to their recent success.
Possible Moldova starting lineup:
Celeadnic; Craciun, Mudrac, Babohlo; Platica, Rata, Motpan, Reabciuk; Caimacov, Damascan, Ionita
With Moldova in strong form and riding a three-match winning streak, they are well-positioned to secure promotion with a win over a managerless Malta. Although Malta will fight hard on home soil, the visitors’ momentum and superior quality should be enough to earn them victory.
Prediction: Malta 0-2 Moldova
