Malta hosts Russia in round 1 of the World Cup Qualification. The match will be played on Wednesday, March 24th at Ta'Qali National Stadium (Ta' Qali)
Malta is considered an outsider at the national team level. But, like the clubs of the country, it can sometimes surprise. It is noteworthy that in the last Nations League, the Reds were the main competitor for the Faroe Islands and scored nine points in six matches, more than the once competitive Latvia. On the other hand, there was only a draw and a defeat with the Faroese. And in 2019, the Maltese lost nine matches in a row. However, what to expect from the national team, which represents one of the smallest countries in Europe? Moreover, unlike the national team of Iceland, there are almost no legionnaires in the Reds’ lineup. Only three players work outside the country, but for the modest teams of non-elite divisions (for example, Newport County). However, there have already been cases when the Maltese took points even from the grandees. It is advisable to learn from the mistakes of others.
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The Russian national team seriously spoiled its reputation last fall. Having started well in the Nations League (with victories over Serbia and Hungary), Stanislav Cherchesov's men failed the other part of that tournament. In October, there were two home draws. And in November, without Artem Dzyuba, who was not called up because of the scandal, the Russians lost 2-3 to the Turks and were destroyed in Belgrade. The Serbs have scored five unanswered goals. And that was used by the Hungarians, who took the 1st place in the group and gained the right to play in the elite division of the next competition. But now Russia will get a powerful boost. According to the latest information, Russian football officials managed to agree with the French authorities, and Golovin will play all the matches of the cycle. With his potential, Aleksandr claims to be the main playmaker of the team.
Bookmakers feel certain of the victory of the Russian national team. But it is worth remembering that there are two more matches ahead. The visitors need to save strength, and Malta will sit back on heels. Therefore, we recommend betting on Under 3.5 goals scored.
Prediction for the match: Under 3.5 goals scored