The Malta National Team held its official MD-1 press conference on Wednesday ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Netherlands, scheduled for Thursday, 9th October at 20:45 at the National Stadium, Ta’ Qali.
Head Coach Emilio De Leo and national team winger Joseph Mbong addressed the media, sharing their thoughts on the team’s progress, current mindset, and the upcoming challenge against the group leaders.
“We face difficulties, but this is how we grow”
Coach De Leo reflected on the team’s journey so far, describing it as one marked by learning and development.
“We have started a journey. We face difficulties, but this is how we grow,” he said. “Our objective is to keep the momentum, learn from our mistakes, and not repeat them. We want to continue being ourselves, have fun, and create our own identity.”
Referring to the earlier defeat against the Netherlands, De Leo admitted it was a difficult moment, but one that ultimately helped the team grow.
“The result against the Netherlands was negative and felt like a slap in the face—it hurt. However, it helped us in the games that followed, where we were able to show that we have grown.”
He noted that the problems in that match were mainly tactical, but stressed the importance of focusing on the team’s strengths rather than its shortcomings.
“The errors were tactical ones, but I prefer to concentrate on our qualities and bank on them. We should show courage and faith, knowing that we have good-quality players who are learning.”
“The group is united and focused”
De Leo underlined the importance of discipline and concentration against strong opponents. He also confirmed that the team’s internal atmosphere remains positive and united.
“There don’t seem to be any problems in the team. We still have our last meeting and training session, but the group is united and focused.”
When asked about the recent disciplinary record, De Leo explained that high intensity and passion sometimes lead to overzealous moments but insisted this is part of the team’s evolution.
“We have a lot of participation by players who show their will to be involved, and we are raising the bar. Sometimes that passion is a bit excessive, and yes, that’s an area where we need to be more balanced.”
“Not all incidents are our fault, but I tell my players that we must march on, even if we do not agree with certain decisions.”
De Leo also highlighted the value of having more players competing abroad.
“The fact that players are playing in European competitions means they are representing our country while also gaining valuable experience to bring back to the team. It’s an advantage. Yes, they may come back tired, but it’s my responsibility to put all the pawns in place.”
Asked to assess the team’s progress so far, De Leo preferred to reserve his judgment until the end of the campaign.
“I would like to give a vote at the end. We still have a way to go, and we can further improve. Destiny is still not in our favour, but I believe it will be when the time is right. We only have to be patient.”
“These are the games every player lives for”
Winger Joseph Mbong echoed the coach’s positive message, speaking about the benefits of playing football at a higher competitive level.
“It helps to be playing at European level. The intensity is higher than in our domestic league. Instead of two games a month, we play three or four, often in big stadiums with large crowds. That environment helps me grow as a player.”
Looking ahead to the match, Mbong described the occasion as special for every player.
“These are the games every player lives for. Hopefully, we’ll have a good attendance, because that always helps our performance. The motivation is high—we want to make up for the away loss.”
He also acknowledged the team’s recent progress.
“Obviously we were disappointed, but during the last international window we showed that we learned from our mistakes and made a good showing. Our aim is to keep improving.”
Both Emilio De Leo and Joseph Mbong reiterated that while results matter, the national team’s long-term goal remains development, identity, and perseverance.
With a united squad and growing international experience, Malta enters Thursday’s match with belief, discipline, and ambition.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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