Mansion Sports – A thrilling matchup awaits at the National Stadium Ta’ Qali, where Malta national football team will host Netherlands national football team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group G. The match is scheduled to kick off on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 20:45 local time.

For the Netherlands, this match offers a golden opportunity to solidify their position at the top of Group G. Meanwhile, Malta comes in as the underdog, aiming to put up their best fight in front of their home supporters.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

Netherlands

The Netherlands head into this fixture with the clear objective of maintaining their grip on first place in the group. 

Under the leadership of Ronald Koeman, the team has shown both promise and inconsistency during recent international windows. 

After opening their qualifying campaign with two convincing victories, the Oranje were held to a 1–1 draw by Poland national football team at home and narrowly defeated Lithuania national football team in a dramatic match.

In the Lithuania encounter, the Netherlands went two goals ahead through strikes by Memphis Depay and Quinten Timber, before the hosts equalized. 

Depay eventually secured the win in the 64th minute, preserving their lead at the top of the table—though only on goal difference over Poland.

With back-to-back matches against Malta and Finland national football team, there is no room for error. 

Two victories would pave their way toward automatic qualification for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.

The Netherlands also boast a dominant record against Malta. In their six most recent encounters, the Oranje have won all six, averaging five goals per game. The last meeting in Groningen ended in a resounding 8–0 victory, with Depay netting twice.

Koeman has made decisive squad choices once again. High-profile names such as Matthijs de Ligt, Sem Steijn, and Noa Lang were not selected, while Teun Koopmeiners, Jorrel Hato, Crysencio Summerville, Brian Brobbey, and Lutsharel Geertruida were also omitted.

In their place, Jeremie Frimpong from Liverpool F.C. and Quilindschy Hartman from Burnley F.C. are expected to reinforce the defense. 

With Memphis Depay and Wout Weghorst not fully fit, Donyell Malen is the most likely starter in attack alongside Cody Gakpo. 

The midfield is expected to be marshaled by Frenkie de Jong, Ryan Gravenberch, and Tijjani Reijnders.

Malta

Malta, on the other hand, enter this game without significant pressure. Under Emilio De Leo, the team sits at the bottom of the table with just two points from draws against Lithuania.

Although they managed a 3–1 friendly win against San Marino national football team, their performance level remains far below that of the Dutch side.

Malta’s realistic target is to minimize the scoreline and avoid a heavy defeat. They receive a boost with the return of experienced midfielder Teddy Teuma and Matthew Guillaumier, but will be without Jake Azzopardi, who was sent off previously. 

Their attack will likely feature a combination of Irvin Cardona, Jodi Jones, and the Mbong brothers.

For the Netherlands, the biggest challenge may be maintaining rhythm ahead of their decisive clash with Finland. On paper, their superior quality and depth make them overwhelming favorites.

Group G Standings Before Kickoff

Official Streaming Platforms for Malta vs Netherlands

Fans around the world can watch the match live through the following official broadcasters and streaming platforms, depending on their location:

• FIFA+
• beIN Sports
• FuboTV
• Stan
• DAZN
• Prime Video
• BBC
• Vision+

A High-Stakes Clash with Different Missions

This match is far more than just another qualifier. For the Netherlands, it is a crucial step toward securing the top spot in Group G and moving closer to automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. 

For Malta, it represents a significant test of resilience and an opportunity to demonstrate character against one of Europe’s strongest sides.

While the Netherlands are clear favorites given their head-to-head history and overall quality, football is never short of surprises. 

No matter the outcome, knowing where to watch Malta vs Netherlands ensures fans can fully experience the intensity and excitement of this crucial qualifier.