Malta vs. Slovenia: Preview and betting tips

Slovenia travel to Malta in the sixth round of World Cup qualifying. They need to win if they want to keep their hopes of qualifying for the barrage alive. Against the group outsider it should be a must, but let’s remember Slovakia and Cyprus.

Malta has been the pleasant surprise of the group so far. After six rounds, it has a nice four points, as it unexpectedly beat Cyprus and drew with Slovakia. They are in second to last place, one point ahead of Cyprus.

Slovenia still has hopes of qualifying for the barrage, but must win on Friday. They are six points behind second-placed Russia in fourth place and could have done much better, but the loss to Cyprus must have had an impact.

The mainstay of the home team is Joseph Mbong, the skilful winger has had a hand in three goals (2+1) in the recent past. Right back Cain Attard has scored two important goals in the last five games.

In the Slovenia camp, it is Haris Vuckic who is firing, scoring five goals in his last nine games on the national stage. Atalanta striker and the visitors’ biggest offensive weapon Josip Ilicic added four goals.

Given the quality of the squad, Malta defends well, having scored just three goals in its last three games.

Slovenia has also struggled in attack, scoring only twice in their last meeting.

Considering the importance of the match, the good form of Jan Oblak and the quality of Slovenia’s squad, I recommend betting on the visitors to win.