Ahead of Malta’s final Nations League Group D2 match against Andorra, interim head coach Davide Mazzotta and forward Jurgen Degabriele addressed the media, expressing determination and a positive mindset despite recent setbacks.
Coach Mazzotta: “Max Commitment and Growth Are Key”.
Coach Mazzotta emphasized that while Saturday’s disappointing result may have dampened spirits, the team remains unified and motivated to close the campaign on a high note. “We are a bit sad after Saturday’s result, but the group is in harmony,” Mazzotta said. “The dream is lost, but our aim is to finish the group with nine points, equal to Moldova.”
Mazzotta is confident that his players will give their 100%, stressing that the team is fully prepared to face a determined Andorran side. “We know Andorra are aggressive and have nothing to lose. They want to make you look bad, play bad, and steal possession,” he remarked. “We must not lose concentration, stay fast, and stick to our plans. We know ourselves and our desire to score.”
Acknowledging Malta’s ongoing struggle with converting chances, Mazzotta was optimistic about the team’s potential. “It doesn’t depend solely on us but also on our opponents. Like all teams, we face difficulties in scoring, but we have ideas we’ve not yet implemented. These things take time to become automatic.”
The coach also expressed gratitude for having a full squad available for selection.
Jurgen Degabriele echoed his coach’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of finishing strong. “This is a national team game, and like all games, the team wants to win and earn nine points,” he said, acknowledging the disappointment of losing out due to the direct encounter rule.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Degabriele shared how the past year and a half had been mentally challenging, but he now feels stronger. “All the frustration was let out in the celebration of my first goal,” he admitted.
On his role within the team, Degabriele stated his ambition to not only be selected but also to make a meaningful impact on the pitch. “I have no control over the coach’s decisions, only over my actions. I want to play and will do my utmost to succeed,” he declared.
Source: MFA
Photo: MFA Jonathan Caruana
