Overview
The Dutch team had an impressive start in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers when they defeated Finland 2-0 away. This victory marked the 5th consecutive unbeaten match of coach Ronald Koeman's team.
Before that, in the quarter-finals of the Nations League, the Netherlands drew 5-5 dramatically with Spain and lost only on penalties. With relatively stable form and only having to face the team below Malta, the Dutch goal is nothing other than 3 full points.
The Netherlands' attacking ability is currently highly appreciated. In the last 5 matches, they scored 12 goals, with many different names shining such as Memphis Depay, Simons, Gakpo or Dumfries.
Notably, Depay scored in 2 consecutive matches against Spain and Finland, bringing the total number of goals in the Dutch shirt to 48. He is only 2 goals behind leader Robin van Persie in the list of top strikers of the Netherlands. The match against Malta will be a great opportunity for Depay to take the lead soon.
Malta is rated much lower than the Netherlands. Coach Emilio De Leo's team has not known the taste of victory in the first 3 matches in the World Cup qualifiers, losing to Finland, Poland and drawing with Lithuania.
In addition to the draw with Andorra in the final round of the Nations League, Malta have failed to win in 4 consecutive matches in all competitions. Notably, the team ranked 169th in the world has been completely without a single point during this period.
The Netherlands have won all 6 previous meetings against Malta. They scored 28 goals in those 6 matches and did not concede. It would be no surprise if Koeman's side continue to beat Malta.
Personnel situation
The Netherlands will continue to be unable to call up 4 injured players: Bart Verbruggen, Brian Brobbey, Jurrien Timber and Jerdy Schouten.
On the other side of the front line, Malta will welcome the return of both Gabriel mentz and Kurt Shaw after suspension. However, Ilyas Chouaref is still unable to play.
Expected lineup:
Netherlands: Flekken, Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Ake, De Jong, Reijnders, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Depay, Frimpong.
Malta: Bonello, Z. Muscat, Carragher, Pepe, J. Mbong, Guillaumier, Teuma, Satariano, Camenzuli, Nwoko, P. Mbong.
The match between the Netherlands and Malta takes place at 1:45 am on June 11 (Vietnam time).
