Malta should take Azerbaijan test with renewed confidence

Despite finding ourselves bottom of the group ahead of another difficult encounter against Azerbaijan, Malta must be feeling they can get something out of the match following an encouraging performance against Georgia on Wednesday.  The game surely comes at a time where the players are feeling signs of fatigue and tiredness, but following last Wednesday’s performance; anything could be possible for our National Team.

Our players are bracing themselves for a tough ride on Saturday against a maturing Azerbaijan side who despite struggling for points, have produced some nice flowing Football particularly in their 2-1 loss against Italy.  However Coach Pietro Ghedin and his team should be feeling somewhat positive for their upcoming clash after a solid defending display which saw them concede two goals towards the late stages of the game. 

Of concern for Ghedin is the physical condition of the players with the majority looking evidently slower than their opponents.  In fact the goals conceded may be attributed to a decline by the players who have not played in a considerable high tempo for a long stretch.  The fact that the National team had not trained for a long period could partly have an effect on the players but should definitely not be used as an excuse.

Roderick Briffa, Paul Fenech and Ryan Fenech who’ve all missed the game against Georgia, are all in contention to be available against Azerbaijan.

Malta have collected just one point after holding out for a 1-1 draw with Bulgaria in November, while Azerbaijan will be determined to win their first three points after losing their opening four fixtures.