Preview: Malta vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina – Friendly Match on Sunday

Malta is aiming to recover from a recent 4-0 defeat to the Netherlands as they prepare to host Bosnia-Herzegovina at Ta’ Qali National Stadium for a friendly match this Sunday evening. The Reds faced a tough loss in their World Cup qualifying campaign, while Bosnia-Herzegovina comes into the game following a 2-2 draw against Cyprus, currently sitting in a promising second position in Group H.

Match Overview

Malta has struggled in their World Cup 2026 qualification, managing only two points from six matches, placing them at the bottom of Group G with an eight-point gap from Poland in the second position. Despite their challenges, Malta has shown some resilience, with two draws in their last four competitive games, including a victory against San Marino in a previous friendly.

Historically, Malta has met Bosnia-Herzegovina four times; while they won their initial encounter in 1999, the latter has dominated the recent matches, claiming victory in the last three, including a narrow 1-0 win in June 2007.

Bosnia-Herzegovina, on the other hand, is looking to solidify their position in the qualification standings, having garnered four wins, one draw, and one loss from their six matches. Their history includes a single World Cup appearance in 2014, and they aim to break their streak of missing out on European Championship finals.

Team Updates

Malta’s head coach, Emilio De Leo, is anticipated to adjust his lineup following the match against the Netherlands. Key players such as Jodi Jones and Joseph Mbong are expected to feature prominently, while captain Matthew Guillaumier will anchor the midfield. Unfortunately, defender James Carragher will be absent due to injury.

On the Bosnia-Herzegovina side, coach Sergej Barbarez plans to make several adjustments to the squad post their game against Cyprus, aiming to give more players a chance to shine, including promising talents like Samed Bazdar and Kerim Alajbegovic.

Anticipated Lineups

Malta likely starting XI:

  • Bonello; J. Borg, Shaw, Pepe, Camenzuli; Guillaumier, Satariano; J. Mbong, Teuma, Jones; I. Cardona

Bosnia-Herzegovina likely starting XI:

  • Hadzikic; Dedic, Katic, Kospo, Mujakic; Menalo, Tahirovic; Memic, Gigovic, Alajbegovic; Bazdar

Prediction

Based on current form and squad depth, we anticipate a closely contested match with Bosnia-Herzegovina edging out Malta with a score of 2-1. The visitors are expected to capitalize on their experience, although Malta may put up a strong fight after some recent encouraging performances.

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