Malta’s head coach Michele Marcolini and goalkeeper Henry Bonello addressed the media ahead of their Nations League League D Group 2 opener against Moldova. The press conference took place on the eve of the highly anticipated clash, with both representatives highlighting the challenges ahead and setting clear expectations for the team.
Coach Michele Marcolini acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead, describing Moldova as the strongest team in the group “on paper.” He praised Moldova’s solid Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, in which they secured an impressive victory against Poland, a team that eventually progressed to the final tournament. Marcolini noted that Moldova’s form and their victory over a major football nation illustrate the challenge Malta will face.
The coach emphasized that playing against Moldova in Chișinău will be particularly tough due to the home advantage. He predicted an aggressive display from Moldova, driven by their experienced players. Marcolini highlighted the presence of seasoned Moldovan midfielder Artur Ioniță, who has gained significant experience playing in Italy, as well as other emerging talents making a name for themselves abroad. He stressed how experience gained outside their home country would benefit Moldova in high-stakes international matches like this.
Reflecting on his own journey, Marcolini shared that since his arrival in Malta, he understood that the Nations League would always be the primary target. Now that the competition is here, he is eager to embark on this new chapter. He emphasized that Malta’s ultimate goal is to win games and secure qualification, marking this campaign as a key focus for the national team.
Malta’s experienced goalkeeper Henry Bonello also addressed the media, expressing his anticipation for the game. Having faced Moldova once before, Bonello is familiar with the challenge. When asked about the absence of key defender Steve Borg, Bonello admitted that Borg’s experience and quality are vital to the team. However, he remained optimistic, stating that other players are ready to step up and fill Borg’s role effectively. Bonello reiterated that Malta’s goal remains unchanged: to win the group and progress.
Marcolini also spoke about the challenges posed by injuries during this international window. Malta has been hit by a few setbacks, with Steve Borg and Enrico Pepe ruled out through injury. Additionally, there is concern over the fitness of Teddy Teuma, who has only played a limited number of minutes this season before picking up an injury. Teuma’s participation in the match remains highly doubtful, leaving Marcolini with some tough decisions to make regarding the starting lineup.
The stage is set for Malta’s Nations League opener against Moldova, a match that could set the tone for the rest of their campaign. Malta will aim to secure a strong start as they take on Moldova on Saturday, 7th September at the Zimbru Stadium in Chișinău, with kick-off set for 18:00.
Photo: Andre Farrugia
