This Thursday, Malta will host the Netherlands at Ta’ Qali Stadium as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup European qualifiers. Let’s examine the odds and propose a solid betting option for this match.
Match Preview
Malta enters this match in low spirits, having collected only two points from eight games, with two draws against Lithuania and six losses. They sit at the bottom of the group, just behind Lithuania by one point.
Malta struggles with poor finishing and defensive issues, having conceded 17 goals. Their main strategy will be to strengthen their defense and look for opportunities to counterattack against the Netherlands.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands is securely positioned at the top of the group, despite a recent draw of 1-1 with Poland. Under coach Ronald Koeman, they quickly rebounded with a win over Lithuania, maintaining their lead based on goal difference.
The “Oranje” feature a powerful attack led by Memphis Depay, their all-time leading scorer, and a strong midfield supported by Frenkie de Jong and Ryan Gravenberch. They are determined to secure a win in Malta as a key step towards World Cup qualification.
Probable Lineups
- Malta: Bonello; Muscat, Pepe, Shaw, J. Borg, Camenzuli; J. Mbong, Teuma, Guillaumier, Satariano; P. Mbong
- Netherlands: Verbruggen; Dumfries, van Hecke, van Dijk, van de Ven; Gravenberch, de Jong, Reijnders; Simons, Malen, Gakpo
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- The Netherlands has won all seven matches against Malta with a total score of 36:0.
- In their last match in March 2025, the Netherlands won 8:0.
- Malta has not won a single qualifier and allows an average of two goals per game.
Prediction
The Netherlands has a significant edge in all areas, from player skill to overall team performance. With the difference in class and their determination to stay on top, a convincing away win is expected. Our suggested bet is: “Netherlands to win with a -2.5 handicap” at odds of 1.60.