On the eve of Malta\u2019s international friendly against Slovakia, NT Head Coach Emilio De Leo and youngster Keyon Ewurum addressed the media ahead of tomorrow\u2019s encounter.<\/p>\n
Irvin Cardona did not join the squad after sustaining an injury during his club\u2019s league play-off match.<\/p>\n
Coach De Leo acknowledged the challenge Malta will face against a strong Slovak side, highlighting both their quality and the extra motivation they will carry into the match.<\/p>\n
\u201cSlovakia are coming from a change in coach, so naturally there will be players eager to prove themselves and show their talent,\u201d De Leo said. \u201cPlaying in front of their home supporters will also be an added motivation for them.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Malta coach stressed that his players must rise to the occasion against opposition ranked considerably higher in the FIFA rankings.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know we are facing a very good team, but we also have a talented group. The players need to show their quality, remain balanced and deliver a strong performance.\u201d<\/p>\n
During the press conference, Slovak journalists referred to Malta\u2019s memorable victory over Finland under De Leo \u2014 a result the coach described as one of his proudest moments in charge.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat was certainly a great satisfaction,\u201d he said. \u201cBut we must also remember that, particularly against Poland, we could perhaps have taken even more from the game. The important thing is to continue building on the good work we showed in that qualifying window.\u201d<\/p>\n
De Leo also praised Slovakia\u2019s overall level, adding that they were unfortunate not to secure qualification for the FIFA World Cup.<\/p>\n
When asked what would satisfy him most from tomorrow\u2019s match, the coach pointed to the team\u2019s attitude and identity on the pitch.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf the team shows that we are compact, balanced, believe in ourselves, never give up and are not afraid of our opponents, then I will be satisfied,\u201d he explained. \u201cWe must be organised, courageous and trust in our abilities.\u201d<\/p>\n
De Leo also highlighted the presence of several young players in the squad, mentioning Ewurum as one of the talents eager to make an impression.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have many young players with the will to shine, and this is the platform for them to do it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ewurum echoed his coach\u2019s message, describing tomorrow\u2019s friendly as an important test ahead of Malta\u2019s upcoming fixtures against Andorra and Gibraltar.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is a very good test for us before those matches, which are closer to us in terms of ranking,\u201d Ewurum said. \u201cWe know why we are here, we know what we need to do and what we want to achieve.\u201d<\/p>\n The young forward ended on a confident note.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are here to give our best \u2014 and if we can get a good result tomorrow, that would be the cherry on the cake.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/livenewsmalta.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/prs-2.jpg\")
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