WEDNESDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - OFFICIAL MATCH PROGRAMME GROUP H
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FIFA WORLD CUP 2022
EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS
GROUP H
WEDNESDAY
1 SEPTEMBER 2021
20.45HRS
NATIONAL STADIUM, TA’ QALI
OFFICIAL MATCH
PROGRAMME
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FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
MESSAGE FROM THE MALTA FA PRESIDENT
WELCOME UEFA PRESIDENT,
WELCOME BACK FANS!
sector. The progress of our
infrastructural projects is also
on the agenda as we step up our
preparations for the 2023 UEFA
Under-19 Championship in Malta.
While our sights are firmly set
on the present and future of
Maltese football, today we are
honouring an inspirational person,
Fr Hilary Tagliaferro. Fr Hilary’s
contribution to Maltese football,
especially at youth level, has been
nothing short of extraordinary, not
to mention his missionary work
among those in need.
Finally, I’m delighted to welcome
back our supporters to the National
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin (top left) will watch the Malta-Cyprus World Cup qualifier at the National
Stadium for a national team match
Stadium today. The match will see the return of fans while the Malta FA will also take the opportunity to after an absence of almost two years
honour Fr Hilary Tagliaferro (right) for his outstanding contribution to local football. due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
It’s been a long time coming but the
Season 2021/22 is slowly but surely member of the European footballing Malta FA is pleased that our efforts
coming to life. The resumption of family since joining UEFA in 1960. and appeals to allow spectators
international football adds to the On behalf of the Maltese football back into our stadia, with the
enthusiasm and excitement community, I extend a warm appropriate measures in place, have
surrounding the new footballing welcome to Mr Čeferin on his first been heeded.
campaign amidst hopes of a return visit to our country since his election While everyone is looking forward
to a semblance of normality. in 2016. UEFA’s assistance in its to a vibrant atmosphere at the
This evening, Malta faces Cyprus multiple forms is essential for our National Stadium, I renew my appeal
at the National Stadium in the Association not only to sustain itself for the fans to adhere to the health
fourth 2022 World Cup Group H but to keep moving forward. We are protocol. Respecting the measures
qualifier, an important match for very grateful to Mr Čeferin for his and instructions will not stop you
our national team as we strive to constant support, encapsulating the from supporting our boys from the
deliver positive performances and principles of solidarity and respect stands as we are all United For Malta.
results while maintaining the which are at the heart of UEFA’s work. Thanks for your support and
improvement in sync with our The key projects of the Malta FA enjoy the game!
strategic objectives. strategy are the focal points of our
Beyond the footballing discussions with Mr Čeferin and the
significance, today’s match is a UEFA delegation as we remain fully
special occasion as we are honoured committed to implementing all the
to have with us Aleksander Čeferin, necessary reforms and changes to
the President of UEFA. The Malta FA take Maltese football to the next
has been a proud and active level, especially in the technical BJORN VASSALLO
MALTA VS CYPRUS
3
FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
INTERVIEW WITH MALTA COACH DEVIS MANGIA
‘WE WILL
ENTER THE
PITCH WITH
A FIRM INTENT
TO PLAY WELL
AND GAIN
POINTS’
DEVIS MANGIA IS KEEN FOR MALTA TO DELIVER
A STRONG SHOWING IN THEIR 2022 WORLD
CUP HOME QUALIFIER AGAINST CYPRUS,
REITERATING HIS BELIEF THAT THE LEVEL OF
PERFORMANCE HAS A HUGE BEARING ON THE
MATCH OUTCOME. KEVIN AZZOPARDI SPOKE
TO THE MALTA COACH…
The key words for Devis Mangia are
consolidation and progression as
Malta will be aiming to show further
improvement and garner more
points in their upcoming three
2022 World Cup Group H qualifiers,
kicking off with the home match
against Cyprus at the National
Stadium this evening.
“We will enter the pitch with
a firm intent to play well and gain
points,” Mangia said ahead of the
home date with Cyprus.
MALTA VS CYPRUS
4
INTERVIEW WITH MALTA COACH DEVIS MANGIA
“Our match mentality is always the same. Results are important
but my philosophy is that the result must be the product
of the performance. I am convinced that we should
always prioritise the performance and results will follow”
“Our match mentality is always Satariano but the hosts bounced While injuries are a concern for
the same. Results are important but back to rescue a point in a 2-2 draw the national team coaching staff,
my philosophy is that the result which nevertheless resulted in Mangia is not downhearted.
must be the product of the Malta’s first point. After a goalless “Cyprus have a strong squad with
performance. I am convinced that draw in the first half of the third more players involved in overseas
we should always prioritise the qualifier, away to Croatia, the 2018 leagues compared to us but this is
performance and results will follow.” World Cup finalists scored three not an issue for me,” Mangia said.
The clash with Cyprus precedes times in the last 30 minutes to “We do have some problems as, in
two away qualifiers against secure the points. certain departments, we are short
Slovenia (4th September) and For their part, Cyprus have on numbers due to the absence of
Russia (7th September) in Group H impressed so far, taking four points several players. The most important
also comprising Croatia and from their first three qualifiers thing at this stage is to prepare for
Slovakia. It is a difficult group but following a goalless draw at home to the game in the best manner
Malta have enjoyed an encouraging Slovakia and a 1-0 win, also at home, possible.
start, earning the plaudits for a against Slovenia, losing only away to “It is true that we must contend
dynamic performance in the Croatia 1-0. While it is clear that with injuries to players who would
opening home match against Cyprus will be tough opponents, otherwise have been selected.
Russia, who needed a late goal to Malta’s cause has not been helped However, we have other solutions
fend off Malta’s comeback in a 3-1 by injuries to a host of established and as I always like to emphasise,
win. In their second match, Malta players such as midfielders Matthew this also creates an opportunity for
stunned Slovakia with superb goals Guillaumier and Bjorn Kristensen, other players to prove that they
from Luke Gambin and Alexander and forward Jurgen Degabriele. have the right attributes to be part
MALTA VS CYPRUS
5
INTERVIEW WITH MALTA COACH DEVIS MANGIA
of our squad because the national March to better cope with the PRE-SEASON TRAINING CAMP
team’s doors are open for demands of another competitive
everyone. The selection also triple-header. As part of their preparations for
reflects our ongoing efforts to give “In March, we noticed some the upcoming World Cup qualifiers,
more experience to young players characteristics,” the Malta coach Malta had a nine-day pre-season
as we continue to rejuvenate the said. “We encountered some training camp in Austria during
squad.” physical problems in the third which they played two friendlies,
As in March, the September game (away to Croatia). For this losing 3-0 to Northern Ireland
international window will see international window, we will try to before turning in a much-improved
national teams take in three World do a careful rotation of the players performance in a narrow 2-1 defeat
Cup qualifiers in the space of seven and closely monitor the recovery to Kosovo.
days. Mangia will be relying on the periods between games, especially “Apart from the work carried out
experience and insights gained considering that we are in the early during the sessions held in Malta,
from the opening three games in phase of the season.” the training camp in Austria was
very useful,” Mangia said. “It also
enabled us to have a closer look
“Finally, we’re going to play a home match in front at some new players who had not
of our supporters. The players have been wanting been part of the squad.
this for a long time, they are looking forward to the
experience and I believe it could provide an added
stimulus for them”
Malta midfielder Teddy Teuma defends possession
in the home qualifier against Russia.
PHOTO: DOMENIC AQUILINA
MALTA VS CYPRUS
6
INTERVIEW WITH MALTA COACH DEVIS MANGIA
Luke Gambin (right) scores a superb
goal in the 2-2 draw away to Slovakia.
PHOTO: MARK ZAMMIT CORDINA
“We faced some fitness issues In addition to the potential
MALTA SQUAD
from a physical point-of-view but tonic linked to the return of the
this was to be expected as the fans, Mangia believes that the GOALKEEPERS
players were coming from a long players will head into the Cyprus Henry Bonello (Ħamrun Spartans);
period of inactivity following the match and the qualifiers away Cain Formosa (San Ġwann); Jake
suspension of the domestic to Slovenia and Russia fully Galea (No Club); Matthew Grech
competitions in March. Compared confident in their abilities and (Pembroke Athleta).
to the players of Northern Ireland convinced that they can do well,
and Kosovo, our players lacked regardless of the strength of DEFENDERS
Andrei Agius (Hibernians); Steve Borg
match fitness but other than that, the opposition.
(Gżira United); Karl Micallef (Ħamrun
I couldn’t ask more from the “Instilling self-belief and Spartans); Zach Muscat (Casa Pia,
players and the staff.” confidence in our players has been Portugal); Enrico Pepe (Birkirkara);
at the heart of our work from day Kurt Shaw (Sliema Wanderers).
one,” Mangia said. “Everything is
RETURN OF FANS centred around this approach MIDFIELDERS
and I believe that the players Cain Attard (Birkirkara); Ryan
While the national team’s improved have embraced this mentality. Camenzuli (Floriana); Triston Caruana
performances under Mangia have The players feel this sense of (Valletta); Juan Carlos Corbolan
(Ħamrun Spartans); Joseph Essien
rekindled the fans’ enthusiasm, positivity and are fully aware of
Mbong (Ħamrun Spartans); Nikolai
the home clash with Cyprus has a the footballing idea we want to Muscat (Gżira United); Brandon Diego
special meaning as it will be the first present on the field of play. Paiber (Floriana); Steven Pisani (Gżira
Malta match open to supporters in “However, we must always United); Nevin Portelli (Gżira United);
almost two years due to the COVID-19 think that we can improve and do Teddy Teuma (R.U. Saint-Gilloise,
pandemic. Mangia welcomed this better every single day. We have Belgium); Dunstan Vella (Hibernians);
positive development. done fairly well so far but this is Dexter Xuereb (Santa Lucia); Yannick
“Finally, we’re going to play a not sufficient. The players have Yankam (Birkirkara).
home match in front of our shown a very good attitude and
FORWARDS
supporters,” Mangia, who took readiness to step up but we need
Jan Busuttil (Floriana); Shaun Dimech
charge of the national team in to not only consolidate what we (Valletta); Omar Elouni (Sliema
December 2019, said. “The players have done but also make another Wanderers); Jake Grech (Hibernians);
have been wanting this for a long step forward in this project, Paul Mbong (Birkirkara); Luke
time, they are looking forward to the including trying new tactical Montebello (Birkirkara); Alexander
experience and I believe it could variations which we can be used Satariano (Frosinone Calcio, Italy).
provide an added stimulus for them.” in the forthcoming games.”
MALTA VS CYPRUS
7
FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS MATCHDAY 7 - 08/10/2021
MALTA vs Slovenia 20.45
GROUP H FIXTURES AND STANDINGS Cyprus vs Croatia 20.45
Russia vs Slovakia 20.45
MATCHDAY 1 - 24/03/2021 MATCHDAY 4 - 01/09/2021 MATCHDAY 8 - 11/10/2021
Malta 1-3 Russia MALTA vs Cyprus 20.45 Cyprus vs MALTA 18.00
GOALS 0-1 Artem Dzyuba 23, 0-2 Mario Slovenia vs Slovakia 20.45 Slovenia vs Russia 20.45
Fernandes 35, 1-2 Joseph Mbong 56, 1-3 Russia vs Croatia 20.45 Croatia vs Slovakia 20.45
Aleksandr Sobolev 90
Cyprus 0-0 Slovakia MATCHDAY 5 - 04/09/2021 MATCHDAY 9 - 11/11/2021
Cyprus vs Russia 18.00 Russia vs Cyprus 18.00
Slovenia 1-0 Croatia Slovenia vs MALTA 18.00 MALTA vs Croatia 20.45
GOAL 1-0 Sandi Lovric 15 Slovakia vs Croatia 20.45 Slovakia vs Slovenia 20.45
MATCHDAY 2 - 27/03/2021 MATCHDAY 6 - 07/09/2021 MATCHDAY 10 - 14/11/2021
Russia 2-1 Slovenia Russia vs MALTA 20.45 MALTA vs Slovakia 15.00
GOALS 1-0 Artem Dzyuba 26, 2-0 Artem Slovakia vs Cyprus 20.45 Slovenia vs Cyprus 15.00
Dzyuba 35, 2-1 Josip Illicic 36 Croatia vs Slovenia 20.45 Croatia vs Russia 15.00
Croatia 1-0 Cyprus
GOAL 1-0 Mario Pasalic 40 CURRENT STANDINGS
Slovakia 2-2 Malta GOALS GOALS
PLAYED WON DRAW LOST FOR AGAINST POINTS
GOALS 0-1 Luke Gambin 16, 0-2 Alexander
INFORMATION CORRECT AS OF 30/08/2021.
Satariano 20, 1-2 David Strelec 49, 2-2 Milan Croatia 3 2 0 1 4 1 6
Skriniar 53
Russia 3 2 0 1 6 4 6
MATCHDAY 3 - 30/03/2021 Slovakia 3 1 2 0 4 3 5
Cyprus 1-0 Slovenia Cyprus 3 1 1 1 1 1 4
GOAL 1-0 Ioannis Pittas 42
Slovenia 3 1 0 2 2 3 3
Slovakia 2-1 Russia Malta 3 0 1 2 3 8 1
GOALS 1-0 Milan Skriniar 38, 1-1 Mario
Fernandes 71, 2-1 Robert Mak 74
Croatia 3-0 Malta
GOALS 1-0 Ivan Perisic 62, 2-0 Luka Modric 76
(p), 3-0 Josip Brekalo 90
CENTURY OF APPEARANCES
Defender Andrei Agius made his 100th appearance for Malta in the friendly
match against Kosovo (1-2), played at the Worthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt,
Austria on 4th June, 2021. The 35-year-old Hibernians defender had made his
international debut against Moldova during the 2006 Malta International
Tournament. Picture shows Malta FA President Bjorn Vassallo (left) presenting
a commemorative Malta shirt to Agius before the friendly game against Kosovo.
PHOTO: STEPHEN GATT
MALTA VS CYPRUS
8
FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
MALTA SQUAD
MALTA PLAYER PROFILES
FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS AGAINST
CYPRUS, SLOVENIA & RUSSIA
HENRY CAIN JAKE MATTHEW
BONELLO FORMOSA GALEA GRECH
GOALKEEPER GOALKEEPER GOALKEEPER GOALKEEPER
CLUB Ħamrun Spartans FC CLUB San Ġwann FC CLUB unattached CLUB Pembroke Athleta FC
DOB 13 October 1988 DOB 30 November 2000 DOB 15 April 1996 DOB 19 February 1996
CAPS 28 CAPS 0 CAPS 2 CAPS 0
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
29 February 2012 27 October 2020
Malta 2 Liechtenstein 1 Malta 2 Gibraltar 0
(Friendly) (Friendly)
ANDREI STEVE KARL ZACH
AGIUS BORG MICALLEF MUSCAT
DEFENDER DEFENDER DEFENDER DEFENDER
CLUB Hibernians FC CLUB Gżira United FC CLUB Ħamrun Spartans FC CLUB AC Casa Pia (Portugal)
DOB 12 August 1986 DOB 15 May 1988 DOB 8 September 1996 DOB 22 August 1993
CAPS 100 (6 goals) CAPS 59 (3 goals) CAPS 4 CAPS 44 (1 goal)
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
25 February 2006 7 October 2011 26 March 2019 4 September 2014
Malta 0 Moldova 2 Latvia 2 Malta 0 Malta 0 Spain 2 Slovakia 1 Malta 0
(Malta Int. Tournament) (Euro Championship Qualifier) (Euro Championship Qualifier) (Friendly)
MALTA VS CYPRUS
10MALTA SQUAD
ENRICO KURT DEXTER CAIN
PEPE SHAW XUEREB ATTARD
DEFENDER DEFENDER DEFENDER MIDFIELDER
CLUB Birkirkara FC CLUB Sliema Wanderers FC CLUB Santa Lucia CLUB Birkirkara FC
DOB 12 November 1989 DOB 1 April 1999 DOB 21 September 1997 DOB 10 September 1994
CAPS 3 CAPS 11 CAPS 1 CAPS 7
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
6 September 2020 12 October 2019 30 May 2021 6 June 2017
Malta 1 Latvia 1 Malta 0 Sweden 4 Northern Ireland 3 Malta 0 Ukraine 0 Malta 1
(UEFA Nations League) (Euro Championship Qualifier) (Friendly) (Friendly)
RYAN TRISTON JUAN JOSEPH
CAMENZULI CARUANA CORBALAN MBONG
MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER
CLUB Floriana FC CLUB Valletta FC CLUB Ħamrun Spartans FC CLUB Ħamrun Spartans FC
DOB 8 September 1994 DOB 15 September 1991 DOB 3 January 1997 DOB 15 July 1997
CAPS 16 CAPS 5 (1 goal) CAPS 15 (1 goal) CAPS 29 (1 goal)
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
25 March 2015 26 March 2018 11 October 2018 29 May 2018
Georgia 2 Malta 0 Finland 5 Malta 0 Kosovo 3 Malta 1 Armenia 1 Malta 1
(Friendly) (Friendly) (UEFA Nations League) (Friendly)
NIKOLAI BRANDON STEVE NEVIN
MUSCAT PAIBER PISANI PORTELLI
MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER
CLUB Gżira United FC CLUB Floriana FC CLUB Gżira United FC CLUB Gżira United FC
DOB 13 July 1996 DOB 5 June 1995 DOB 7 August 1992 DOB 16 September 1999
CAPS 2 CAPS 1 CAPS 28 CAPS 0
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
18 November 2019 15 November 2019 28 March 2015
Malta 1 Norway 2 Spain 7 Malta 0 Azerbaijan 2 Malta 0
(Euro Championship Qualifier) (Euro Championship Qualifier) (Euro Championship Qualifier)
MALTA VS CYPRUS
11MALTA SQUAD
TEDDY DUNSTAN YANNICK JAN
TEUMA VELLA YANKAM BUSUTTIL
MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER FORWARD
CLUB Royale Union St CLUB Hibernians FC CLUB Birkirkara FC CLUB Floriana FC
Gilloise (Belgium) DOB 27 April 1996 DOB 12 December 1997 DOB 6 March 1999
DOB 30 September 1993 CAPS 8 CAPS 0 CAPS 1
CAPS 11
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
1 June 2018 11 November 2020
3 September 2020
Faroe Islands 3 Malta 2 Georgia 1 Malta 0 Malta 3 Liechtenstein 0
(UEFA Nations League) (Friendly) (Friendly)
DEVIS DAVIDE
MANGIA MAZZOTTA
HEAD FIRST ASSISTANT
COACH COACH
SHAUN OMAR JAKE
DIMECH ELOUNI GRECH
FORWARD FORWARD FORWARD
CLUB Valletta FC CLUB Sliema Wanderers FC CLUB Hibernians FC
DOB 8 August 2001 DOB 16 March 1999 DOB 18 November 1997
CAPS 6 (2 goals) CAPS 0 CAPS 17
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT
7 October 2020 29 May 2018 GUILLERMO ALESSANDRO
Malta 2 Gibraltar 0 Armenia 1 Malta 1
GIACOMAZZI ZINNARI
(Friendly) (Friendly) ASSISTANT TECHNICAL
COACH CO-ORDINATOR
MARIO
CAPECE
GOALKEEPERS
COACH
Keith FENECH – Team Manager
Luca PAGANI – Fitness Coach
Francesco ZANASI – Fitness Coach
PAUL LUKE ALEXANDER Facundo STYK – Match Analyst
MBONG MONTEBELLO SATARIANO Pamela SCHEMBRI – Communications
Director/National Team Media Officer
FORWARD FORWARD FORWARD
Daniel McKEAN – Team Doctor
CLUB Birkirkara FC CLUB Birkirkara FC CLUB Frosinone Calcio (Italy) Luke BUSUTTIL LEAVER – Physiotherapist
DOB 2 September 2001 DOB 13 August 1995 DOB 25 October 2001 Julian RIZZO NAUDI – Physiotherapist
CAPS 6 CAPS 11 CAPS 8 (1 goal) Simone DONATO – Physiotherapist
NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT NATIONAL TEAM DEBUT Aaron ANCILLERI – Masseur
3 September 2020 26 March 2017 11 November 2020 Frankie CIANTAR – Kit Manager
Faroe Islands 3 Malta 2 Malta 1 Slovakia 3 Malta 3 Liechtenstein 0 Mark PISCOPO – Kit Manager
(UEFA Nations League) (World Cup Qualifier) (Friendly)
INFORMATION CORRECT AS OF 30/08/2021.
MALTA VS CYPRUS
12FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
FACTS AND FIGURES
CARABOTT EVER-PRESENT
IN SIX MEETINGS WITH CYPRUS
1
Valletta midfielder Nicholas Saliba
made his international debut on
23rd November 1988, in a 1-1 draw
against Cyprus at the National
Stadium. Saliba, who was 22 years,
two months and 28 days when he
made his Malta bow, came on as a
substitute for Hubert Suda, of
Sliema Wanderers, who was playing
his second game for Malta.
« The Malta team that faced Cyprus in a
friendly match on 23rd November, 1988 at
the National Stadium. The match ended 1-1.
6 14
David Carabott is the only player Hibernians and Valletta had the
who has featured in all six matches most appearances with 14 each…
against Cyprus followed by 10 others followed by Ħamrun Spartans and
with three appearances each – the late Sliema Wanderers (12); Birkirkara
David Cluett, Joe Brincat, Carmel Busuttil, (6); Rabat Ajax (5); Floriana (4); KRC
Raymond Vella, Martin Gregory, Michael Genk (3); Kaiserslautern, Lokomotiv
Degiorgio, Charles Scerri, Joe Galea, Sofia, Żurrieq (2); Airdrie Utd,
Hubert Suda and Silvio Vella. Brentford FC, Chernomore Varna,
Shamrock Rovers, St Andrew’s (1).
18
The youngest Malta player to
face Cyprus was Joe Brincat
(Ħamrun Spartans), aged
18 years, seven months and
seven days, on 12th October,
1988, during the 1-0 victory in the friendly
match at the Tsirio Stadium, Limassol.
« David Carabott (left) has represented Malta in
the six previous matches against Cyprus.FACTS AND FIGURES
» Michael Degiorgio (left) surges
forward during the goalless draw
against Cyprus in an away friendly
match in 1989.
18
Malta and Cyprus will meet again
after 18 years, two months, 25 days
26
ago (precisely 6,660 days) – the last Defender Luke Dimech
encounter was a European Qualifier (Birkirkara) was the oldest
at the National Stadium on 7th June player to score against
2003. Cyprus won 2-1. The record Cyprus, aged 26 years, four
between the two sides reads: Cyprus: months and 27 days, on 7th
3 wins, Malta: 1 win; 2 draws. June, 2003. He reduced the
deficit in the 2-1 defeat
during a European Qualifier.
35
The oldest player was David Carabott
(Valletta) who was 35 years and
42
20 days when Malta lost 2-1 to Cyprus A total of 42 players
on 7th June, 2003. Ironically, Carabott, selected by three different
who was on the books of Hibernians coaches (Horst Heese,
at the time, is the youngest scorer Pippo Psaila and Sigfried
against Cyprus at 20 years, six Held) were used with a total
months and five days. He opened of 81 player appearances against Cyprus.
the scoring in the friendly match (1-1), The players who featured for Malta in
played on 23rd November, 1988 at matches against Cyprus represented
the National Stadium. 16 clubs, seven of which were foreign.
STATISTICS COMPILED BY JESMOND MOORE
MALTA VS CYPRUS
15FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
Defender Luke Dimech scores with a
glancing header in Malta’s 2-1 defeat
to Cyprus in a EURO 2004 qualifier at
PREVIOUS ENCOUNTERS the National Stadium on 7 June, 2003.
CLOSE MATCHES
Malta have had mixed results
against Cyprus, recording
AND MIXED RESULTS
some positive results in
friendly matches but FOR MALTA
AGAINST CYPRUS
conceding narrow defeats in
the two EURO 2004 qualifying
matches. LENNARD KELDER
looks back on Malta’s previous This was Malta’s first competitive creating scoring opportunities
encounters with Cyprus… match against Cyprus, a EURO 2004 through Michael Mifsud, Adrian
qualifier at the GSP stadium in Mifsud and Danijel Bogdanovic
Nicosia. Malta coach Sigfried Held but were frustrated by the excellent
EURO 2004 Championship fielded three foreign-based players, goalkeeping of Nikos Panayiotou.
Qualifying Round Luke Dimech (Shamrock Rovers), Cyprus stepped up their game
Stefan Giglio (Lokomotiv Sofia) and after half-time and five minutes
20/11/2002 Michael Mifsud (FC Kaiserslautern), into the second half, Rainer
CYPRUS 2-1 MALTA but had to cope without Joe Brincat, Raufmann broke the deadlock,
suspended, and the injured beating Mario Muscat after meeting
SCORERS Rainer Raufmann 50; Chucks Nwoko. a cross from Kaiafas. The hosts
Ioannis Okkas 74; Michael Mifsud 90. In the first half, Malta were well- doubled their lead on 74 minutes
REFEREE Anton Guenov (Bulgaria). organised in defence and up front, thanks to Ioannis Okkas who
MALTA VS CYPRUS
17PREVIOUS ENCOUNTERS
finished off some good work by
Theodotou and Yiasoumis. On the
stroke of full-time, Michael Mifsud
pulled one back for Malta with a
strong shot after being served at
the far post by captain David
Carabott.
MALTA Mario Muscat, Carlo Mamo
(Miguel Mifsud 74), Brian Said,
Jeffrey Chetcuti, Luke Dimech,
David Carabott, Stefan Giglio
(Daniel Theuma 80), Gilbert Agius,
Raymond Vella (left) captained Malta to a 1-0
Danijel Bogdanovic, Michael Mifsud,
victory in a friendly match away to Cyprus in 1988.
Adrian Mifsud (George Mallia 62).
COACH Sigfried Held.
his first (and only) international goal, 23/11/1988
07/06/2003 a fine header from a Gilbert Agius MALTA 1-1 CYPRUS (TA’ QALI)
MALTA 1-2 CYPRUS free-kick. This goal inspired the
hosts who intensified their efforts MALTA SCORER David Carabott 16.
SCORERS Michael Konstantinou 22 in search of an equaliser, pushing
(pen.), 53; Luke Dimech 73. the Cypriots back for most of the MALTA David Cluett, Martin Scicluna
REFEREE Bernhard Brugger (Austria). remaining time. Unfortunately, (Michael Woods 63), Alex Azzopardi,
Malta’s efforts were not rewarded Joe Galea, Joe Brincat, John
An early red card for goalkeeper as Cyprus held out for a 2-1 victory. Buttigieg, Hubert Suda (Nicky
Saviour Darmanin after just 23 Saliba 56), Charles Scerri (Silvio
minutes left Malta with a mountain MALTA Saviour Darmanin, Simon Vella 86), David Carabott, Michael
to climb in the return match at Vella, Brian Said (Danijel Bogdanovic Degiorgio, Martin Gregory.
Ta’ Qali. In a swift Cyprus counter- 85), Luke Dimech, William COACH Horst Heese
attack, Darmanin rushed out to Camenzuli, David Carabott, Noel
stop Michael Konstantinou’s run Turner, Stefan Giglio, George Mallia 11/10/1989
but his intervention was deemed (Gilbert Agius 67), Chucks Nwoko CYPRUS 0-0 MALTA (LARNACA)
irregular by Austria referee (Mario Muscat 22), Michael Mifsud.
Bernhard Brugger who awarded COACH Sigfried Held. MALTA Reggie Cini, Silvio Vella,
Cyprus a penalty and dismissed the Joe Galea, Jesmond Delia, David
Pietà Hotspurs goalkeeper. Mario Carabott, Charles Scerri, Ray Vella,
Muscat replaced Nwoko to take FRIENDLY MATCHES Michael Degiorgio, Joe Zarb,
over in goal but could do nothing Hubert Suda (Jesmond Zerafa 42),
to stop Konstantinou’s spot-kick as 12/10/1988 Carmel Busuttil.
Cyprus took a 1-0 lead. CYPRUS 0-1 MALTA (LIMASSOL) COACH Horst Heese
Despite this setback, the Maltese
worked hard and did well to contain MALTA SCORER Carmel Busuttil 87. 07/10/1992
the Cypriots, also carving out some CYPRUS 3-0 MALTA ( LIMASSOL)
goal opportunities themselves. MALTA David Cluett, Edwin
However, eight minutes into the Camilleri, Alex Azzopardi (Michael MALTA David Cluett, Silvio Vella, Joe
second half, Cyprus all but sealed Woods 46), Joe Brincat, John Camilleri, Joe Galea, Joe Brincat, Kris
the points as Konstantinou added Buttigieg, Martin Scicluna, Ray Laferla, Ray Vella, (Hubert Suda 66),
his second of the night after Vella, David Carabott (Martin Nicky Saliba (Jesmond Zerafa 63),
receiving from Okkas. With 17 Gregory 70), Michael Degiorgio, Martin Gregory, Carmel Busuttil,
minutes remaining, Luke Dimech Charles Scerri, Carmel Busuttil. Stefan Sultana (David Carabott 66).
revived Malta’s hopes by scoring COACH Horst Heese COACH Pippo Psaila
MALTA VS CYPRUS
18CONTACTLESS CARDS JUST TAP & PAY Talk to us | 2131 2020 | bov.com Issued by Bank of Valle琀a p.l.c., 58, Triq San Żakkarija, Il-Belt Valle琀a VLT 1130. Bank of Valle琀a p.l.c. is a public limited company regulated by the MFSA and is licensed to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta).
FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
CYPRUS SQUAD
Goalkeepers Antreas KARO Grigoris KASTANOS Loizos LOIZOU
CLUB APOEL NICOSIA FC CLUB US SALERLITANA 1919 (Italy) CLUB OMONOIA NICOSIA FC
Constantinos PANAYI DOB 09/09/96 CAPS 9 DOB 30/01/98 CAPS 36 (3) DOB 18/07/03 CAPS 10 (1)
CLUB OMONOIA NICOSIA FC
DOB 08/10/94 CAPS 23 Constantinos SOTERIOU Alexander GOGIC Marios ILIA
CLUB AEL LIMASSOL FC CLUB HIBERNIAN FC (Scotland) CLUB ETHNIKOS ACHNAS FC
Demetris DEMETRIOU DOB 21/06/96 CAPS 5 DOB 13/04/94 CAPS 7 DOB 19/05/96 CAPS 9 (1)
CLUB APOLLON LIMASSOL FC
DOB 15/01/99 CAPS 6 Thomas IOANNOU Michalis IOANNOU Marinos TZIONI
CLUB ETHNIKOS ACHNAS FC CLUB ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA FC CLUB OMONOIA NICOSIA FC
Neofytos MICHAEL DOB 19/07/95 CAPS 5 DOB 30/06/00 CAPS 3 DOB 16/07/01 CAPS 8
CLUB APOEL NICOSIA FC
DOB 16/12/93 CAPS 4 Paris PSALTIS Onisiforos ROUSHIAS
CLUB OMONOIA NICOSIA FC Forwards CLUB ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA FC
DOB 12/11/96 CAPS 2 DOB 15/07/92 CAPS 8
Defenders Dimitris CHRISTOFI
Nikolas PANAGIOTOU CLUB ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA FC Panagiotis ZACHARIOU
Andreas AVRAAM CLUB OMONOIA NICOSIA FC DOB 28/09/88 CAPS 59 (8) CLUB OΜΟΝΟΙΑ NICOSIA FC
CLUB ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA FC DOB 12/05/00 CAPS 0 DOB 26/02/96 CAPS 7 (1)
DOB 06/06/87 CAPS 44 (5) Pieros SOTIRIOU
CLUB PFC LUDOGORETS RAZGRAD Dimitris THEODOROU
Nikolas IOANNOU Midfielders (Bulgaria) CLUB ETHNIKOS ACHNAS FC
CLUB FC COMO 1907 (Italy) DOB 13/01/93 CAPS 47 (10) DOB 10/09/97 CAPS 1
DOB 10/11/95 CAPS 27 (2) Kostakis ARTYMATAS
CLUB ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA FC Fotios PAPOULIS
Marios ANTONIADES DOB 15/04/93 CAPS 49 (1) CLUB OMONOIA NICOSIA FC Head Coach
CLUB ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA FC DOB 22/01/85 CAPS 17 (2)
DOB 14/05/90 CAPS 15 Charalampos KYRIAKOU Nikolaos KOSTENOGLOU
CLUB APOLLON LIMASSOL FC Ioannis PITTAS
Fanos KATELARIS DOB 09/02/95 CAPS 38 CLUB APOLLON LIMASSOL FC
CLUB APOLLON LIMASSOL FC DOB 10/07/96 CAPS 17 (1)
INFORMATION CORRECT AS OF 30/08/2021.
DOB 26/08/96 CAPS 10 (1)
MALTA VS CYPRUS
20FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
2021-23 UEFA UNDER-21 CHAMPIONSHIP
NATIONAL TEAMS’
FOOTBALL PHILOSOPHY AT
HEART OF MALTA U-21 WORK
The Malta Under-21 coaching staff, led by
head coach Gilbert Agius (third from right).
A new challenge beckons for the Malta Under-21 team as they kick off their 2021/23 UEFA Under-21
Championship qualifying campaign with a home match against Northern Ireland on Friday,
3rd September, 2021 followed by a trip to Russia four days later. Rodney Vassallo spoke to Malta
Under-21 coach Gilbert Agius ahead of the start of this new competition…
Gilbert Agius, who succeeded Silvio the squad which now comprises ideas and methods and we are
Vella at the helm of the Malta several new players. happy with their attitude. That said,
Under-21 side in March, is eyeing “It was a good experience for all, everyone is well aware that there is
further improvement from his myself included,” Agius said of the still a lot of work to be done.”
new-look team following the initial training camp. “To build a new Agius has made a few changes
work carried out in the pre-season squad for the new competition you from the squad selected for the
training camp in Slovenia in the need time, especially to work on the Slovenia training camp. “There are
May-June period. The training camp, team’s organisation and the level of many factors that influence the
which included two friendly matches understanding between the players. squad selection, including current
against the Qatar Under-23 team (0-5) “Our main objective is to explain form, injuries and players changing
and Bosnia & Herzegovina U-21 (0-1), and implement the footballing clubs,” the Malta Under-21 coach
was a useful opportunity for Agius philosophy of the national teams. said. “Our approach is to identify
and his staff to start working with The boys were very open to our the players who have the right
222021-23 UEFA UNDER-21 CHAMPIONSHIP
attributes that fit with the idea “These matches will be challenging 2021-23 UEFA
of football of the national teams. but we need to prepare in the best U-21 CHAMPIONSHIP
We also wanted to involve other
players who were not part of the
way possible as that is the only way
we can achieve our objectives.”
QUALIFYING ROUND
Slovenia training camp for different MALTA’S GROUP C
reasons.”
Apart from Northern Ireland and
MALTA UNDER-21 SQUAD MATCH SCHEDULE
Russia, the other teams in Group C GOALKEEPERS Dylan Ciappara (Mosta 3 SEPTEMBER, 2021
are Spain, Slovakia and Lithuania. FC), Duncan Formosa (Gudja United FC), Centenary Stadium
Agius knows that his young team Amara Sylla (Birkirkara FC). Malta vs Northern Ireland 16.30
faces a stern test in all the
qualifiers but he insisted that DEFENDERS Glenn Attard (Pembroke 7 SEPTEMBER, 2021
sustained improvement, in terms of Athleta FC), Matthew Ellul (Hibernians FC), Russia vs Malta 18.00
Christian Gauci (Valletta FC), Karl Mohnani
team and individual performances,
(Melita FC), Owen Spiteri (Floriana FC), 8 OCTOBER, 2021
are the top priorities. Lithuania vs Malta
Carlo Zammit Lonardelli (Sirens FC).
“Our expectations are to see
improvement both as individuals MIDFIELDERS Ayrton Attard (Hibernians 12 OCTOBER, 2021
and collectively as a team,” Agius FC), Jean Paul Attard (San Ġwann FC), Slovakia vs Malta
said. “Results help to build Emerson Camilleri (Santa Lucia FC),
confidence and self-belief in the Aleandro Garzia (Floriana FC), Marcus 12 NOVEMBER, 2021
project but mostly we want our Grima (Balzan FC), Adam Magri Overend Malta vs Spain
players to keep improving and (Floriana FC), Liam McKay (Santa Lucia
FC), Andreas Vella (Santa Lucia FC). 16 NOVEMBER, 2021
gain more understanding and
Northern Ireland vs Malta
experience of what is expected
FORWARDS Jamie Carbone (Santa Lucia
from them vis-a-vis the national FC), Jake Engerer (Sliema Wanderers FC), 25 MARCH, 2022
teams’ football philosophy and, Jeremy Micallef (Valletta FC), Bradley Malta vs Russia
above all, that they show the right Sciberras (Floriana FC), Jamie Sixsmith (St
commitment and attitude. Andrews FC), Mattia Veselji (Floriana FC). 29 MARCH, 2022
Malta vs Lithuania
3 JUNE, 2022
Malta vs Slovakia
7 JUNE, 2022
Spain vs Malta
INFORMATION CORRECT AS OF 30/08/2021.
The Malta U-21 team during a training session ahead of
their opening 2021-23 UEFA U-21 Championship qualifiers.FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS GROUP H
MALTA WOMEN GEARING UP FOR MALTA’S GROUP E
SCHEDULE
2023 WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS 16/09/2021 (18.00)
Denmark vs Malta
21/09/2021 (18.30)
Gianluca Lia tournament in England. Viborg Centenary Stadium
Stadium will be the venue of the Malta vs Bosnia-Herzegovina
The Malta women’s national team game against Malta on 16th
will return to competitive action September. Denmark, currently 15th 21/10/2021
Russia vs Malta
as they kick off their 2023 FIFA in the FIFA rankings and drawn from
Women’s World Cup qualifying Pot 1, start as favourites to top the 26/10/2021
campaign with a double-header group and advance to the World Azerbaijan vs Malta
against Denmark and Bosnia- Cup in Australia/New Zealand 2023.
Herzegovina this month. The other In the second qualifier, Malta 26/11/2021
teams in Group E are Russia, will host Bosnia at the Centenary Malta vs Montenegro
Azerbaijan and Montenegro. Stadium on 21st September. In their 30/11/2021
Led by coach Mark Gatt, the UEFA Women’s EURO home qualifier Bosnia-Herzegovina vs Malta
Maltese girls will be looking to against Bosnia, played on 10th
improve on their performance in March, 2020, Malta came close to 8/04/2022
the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 pulling off a famous comeback, Malta vs Denmark
INFORMATION CORRECT AS OF 30/08/2021.
qualifiers when they finished fourth losing 3-2 after being two goals
12/04/2022
in the six-team group with a total behind. Nevertheless, a performance Malta vs Russia
of 10 points – a record for the like that against the 58th-ranked
women’s national team. team in the world underlined the 02/09/2022
The preparations for the FIFA progress made by the Maltese team. Malta vs Azerbaijan
Women's World Cup commitments The growth of the women’s
06/09/2022
included the VisitMalta Women’s game in Malta is also reflected in
Montenegro vs Malta
Trophy where Malta hosted Slovakia the number of players moving
and Tokyo 2020 runners-up Sweden. abroad. Once again, coach Gatt can
In addition, the Maltese girls faced rely on a number of foreign-based
fellow Group E opponents players. On the other hand, the who will be part of the senior
Montenegro in a friendly double- players who are based in the technical staff in an official
header in June. A Jade Flask goal Maltese league have also been competition for the first time.
helped Malta to a 1-0 victory in the showing steady improvement and A record 51 teams are taking part
second match against the Eastern Birkirkara’s brave displays against in these World Cup qualifiers, split
European side after Montenegro Glasgow City and Slovan Bratislava into six groups of six teams and
had won the opening game 2-1. in the recent UEFA Women’s three groups of five. They will be
As in the previous European Champions League qualifiers are competing for nine direct spots in
qualifiers, Malta will launch their testament to this improvement. the finals as well as the chance to
campaign with a daunting match Heading into this qualifying play off for three other European
against giants Denmark, one of the competition, Gatt will be assisted berths. Another berth will be at
teams competing in next summer’s by former Hibernians captain and stake through the inter-
UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 final national team player Dionne Tonna confederation play-offs.
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