Finland Faces Malta in World Cup Qualifier Showdown

TA’ QALI, Malta — Finland enters a crucial World Cup qualifier against Malta on Friday, November 14, needing a win to keep its qualification hopes alive. The match is set to kick off at 9:00 a.m. PT / 12:00 p.m. ET.

Finland is currently three points behind second-place Poland in Group G and has played one additional game. To secure a playoff spot, Finland must defeat Malta and hope Poland loses its final two matches and serves up a significant goal differential swing.

Malta, on the other hand, languishes at the bottom of Group G with just two points from six matches, offering little resistance throughout the qualifying campaign. They’ve only managed a solitary goal, drawing 1-1 with Lithuania, and suffered a hefty aggregate defeat of 12-0 against the Netherlands.

Finland previously defeated Malta 1-0 in their earlier fixture this campaign. Star striker Teemu Pukki, who has scored 42 international goals, aims to lead his team to another crucial victory in what could be his last international appearance.

Malta’s squad will see the return of James Carragher, but they will miss Ryan Camenzuli and Teddy Teuma due to suspensions. Veteran winger Joseph Mbong is expected to feature prominently in their attack.

With this match being critical for Finland’s World Cup aspirations, Coach Markku Kanerva’s side aims to capitalize on Malta’s struggles. The team hopes to keep their slim hopes of qualification alive and secure the much-needed three points.

The match will be broadcast live in the United States via various networks, and fans can also stream it online. Viewing options may require the use of a VPN for international audiences.