Date: Thursday, 9 October 2025
Kick-off time: 19:45 (UK)
Venue: Ta’ Qali National Stadium, Malta

Malta are set to host the Netherlands under the lights at Ta’ Qali in World Cup qualifying, and this one looks like a classic David vs Goliath matchup. The home crowd will be loud, the atmosphere buzzing — but can Malta really stop one of Europe’s most in-form teams?

Malta come into this one off a morale-boosting 3–1 win over San Marino, while the Netherlands edged Lithuania 3–2 in their last outing. Both teams scored goals, but only one of them looks ready to take on the world. You can guess which one.

Malta Team News

Malta have finally got that winning feeling again after beating San Marino — thanks to goals from Irvin Cardona, Zach Muscat, and Paul Mbong. But when you look past the scoreline, they still showed defensive gaps. Thirteen goals conceded in their last six matches says it all.

Teenage midfielder Jake Azzopardi is suspended after picking up a ban, which means Malta will likely shuffle things around in the middle. Expect Joseph Mbong to push forward more often, while captain Steve Borg tries to keep order at the back.

They’ll sit deep, play compact, and try to hit on the counter. It’s their only real option here.

Netherlands Team News

Now, let’s talk about the visitors…

Memphis Depay is back to his best, firing in two goals against Lithuania. Quinten Timber added another, and the midfield trio with Frenkie de Jong just clicks perfectly. They’re fluid, creative, and confident.

Koeman’s called up Mexx Meerdink for the first time, a young striker who’s been on fire for AZ Alkmaar. No Noa Lang or Sem Steijn, but with Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen, and Xavi Simons all in the mix, you won’t notice.

The only real danger for the Dutch? Getting too comfortable. But even at 70%, they should have way too much for Malta.

Likely Lineups

Malta (5-3-2): Bonello; Muscat, Borg, Pepe, Guillaumier, Attard; Mbong, Pisani, Camenzuli; Cardona, Montebello

Netherlands (4-3-3): Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Dijk, De Ligt, Ake; De Jong, Reijnders, Timber; Gakpo, Depay, Simons

Match Preview & What to Expect

Expect Malta to set up with ten men behind the ball and hope for a miracle. They’ll fight, no doubt about that. But against a side that beat them 8–0 last time, it’s more about damage control.

Netherlands are just on another level right now. Their possession play, movement, and finishing are all top tier. With Depay leading the line and Van Dijk at the back, they’re solid in both boxes.

Still, Malta at home might hang on for a while — the crowd will push them. But once the first Dutch goal goes in, it’ll be wave after wave of orange attacks.

Malta vs Netherlands Betting Tips

Here’s what I’m looking at for this one:

• Netherlands to win & Over 3.5 goals – they’ve hit that mark in three of their last four games.
• Depay anytime scorer – he’s back in form, and he’s on penalties too.
• First-half Netherlands to lead – they love to start strong.
• Both teams to score – No – Malta’s going to struggle for clear chances.

If you’re after something simple, Netherlands to win to nil looks a safe shout.

Match Prediction: Netherlands to win. Bet with bet365.

Malta vs Netherlands Correct Score Prediction

You won’t believe this, but the last time these two met, it finished 8–0 to the Dutch. Now, it might not be quite that wild this time, but it could still be one-sided.

I’m leaning toward another comfortable win — the kind that’s over by half-time. Malta might show flashes of energy, but the Netherlands just have too much class and finishing power.

Correct Score Prediction: Malta 0–5 Netherlands. Bet with bet365.

Malta vs Netherlands Over & Under Goals Betting Tips

So, let’s talk goals.

The stats are crystal clear. Netherlands have scored 19 goals in their last six games, and they’ve hit four or more in three of those. Malta have conceded 13 in their last six — which isn’t exactly reassuring.

Over 2.5 goals looks safe, but if you want a bit more excitement (and value), go for Over 3.5 or even Over 4.5.

• Over 4.5 Goals: Ambitious, but worth a cheeky punt.
• Over 2.5 Goals: Safe play.
• Over 3.5 Goals: Likely.

Over/Under Prediction: Over 3.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.

Malta vs Netherlands Bet Builder Tip

Alright, let’s put it all together. Here’s a combo that ticks all the boxes:

• Netherlands to win
• Memphis Depay anytime scorer
• Over 3.5 total goals
• Both teams to score – No

That’s your go-to Bet Builder for Thursday night. Straightforward, logical, and right in line with how both teams have been playing lately.

Bet Builder Tip: Netherlands to win, Depay to score, Over 3.5 goals, BTTS No. Bet with bet365.

Key Stats

• Netherlands scored 8 goals in their last meeting with Malta (June 2025).
• Malta have conceded 13 goals in their last six matches.
• Netherlands have scored in every game since March 2025.
• Depay has 4 goals in his last 5 internationals.
• Malta have lost 12 of their last 14 qualifiers.

Visit our football previews & predictions page for more betting tips on upcoming matches.

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