England’s impressive Euro 2024 qualifying campaign will continue this Friday when they face Malta in their third game in Group C. After securing victories over Italy and Ukraine, the Three Lions look to extend their winning streak against a Malta team that has yet to clinch a win in the group stage.
Match Details and Head-to-Head Record
The match will be held at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali, Malta, on Friday, June 16, with a kick-off time of 19:45 BST/14:45 ET/11:45 PT. Croatian referee Igor Pajac will officiate, with VAR duties handled by Duje Strukan.
England has a better record in past meetings, with five wins versus Malta, who has yet to win. The last time these two countries met, England won 4-0 in a World Cup qualifying match on September 1, 2017.
Team News and Line-ups
Malta faces a significant setback with Teddy Teuma, their top creator from last season’s Belgian league, ruled out due to a foot injury. In his absence, Matthew Grech could potentially make his debut.
On the England side, recently transferred Real Madrid player, Jude Bellingham, pulled out of the squad due to injury, along with Lewis Dunk. Their replacements in training are yet to be confirmed, but Chelsea centre-back Levi Colwill may get a nod. Furthermore, Manchester City’s Champions League winners, Kalvin Phillips, Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, John Stones, and Kyle Walker, are expected to rest after their recent victory. Ebere Eze and Levi Colwill, newcomers to the squad, could make their debut.
Where and How to Watch
The match will be broadcasted on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom, FOX Sports 1 and ViX+ in the United States, and DAZN in Canada. Following Channel 4’s acquisition of broadcasting rights, all Three Lions games will be accessible free-to-air for the next two years. Fans may also watch the game live on Channel 4’s app and desktop website.
Predictions and Expectations
While Malta is perceived as an underdog, England’s coach Gareth Southgate expects his players to deliver a professional and disciplined performance in order to win. Despite some players resting and others potentially making their debut, England is expected to emerge victorious, keeping their position at the top of Group C, and edging closer to qualifying for next summer’s finals in Germany.
