Gibraltar Strives for Victory Against San Marino in Nations League Clash

In an eagerly anticipated Nations League clash, Gibraltar is set to host San Marino at the Europa Point Stadium on Thursday. This match marks Gibraltar’s second game in the 2024-25 Nations League campaign. The home team currently holds second place in their three-team group with one point, having drawn 2-2 against Liechtenstein on September 8. Meanwhile, San Marino tops the group with three points following a 1-0 victory over Liechtenstein on September 5.

Gibraltar’s recent encounter with Liechtenstein left them disappointed, as they conceded a 104th-minute equalizer to finish 2-2, despite leading twice during the match. In the previous Nations League edition, Gibraltar finished at the bottom of their League C group and was relegated after a 2-0 aggregate defeat to Lithuania in the playoffs. Under their manager, who has been at the helm since July 2018, the team has seen a balanced record of seven wins, draws, and losses. However, they have shown signs of improvement, as evidenced by their recent home performances, which include two draws and a win.

San Marino, on the other hand, celebrated a historic victory against Liechtenstein, marking their first competitive win. The team had not secured a victory since their competitive debut in 1990, enduring a 140-match winless streak since their last triumph against the same opponent in 2004. Their manager, who took charge just six games ago, expressed that leading the national team felt like his destiny. Despite their recent success, San Marino has struggled on the road, with only four draws in 101 away matches since December 1990.

The starting lineup for Gibraltar is expected to include Banda in goal, with Jolley, Lopes, Annesley, and Mascarenhas-Olivero forming the defensive line. Scanlon and Torrilla may hold the midfield, complemented by wide players Bent and Britto. Up front, Walker and De Barr are likely to provide the offensive threat.

San Marino is anticipated to field a similar team to the one that beat Liechtenstein. Colombo is expected to start in goal, backed by defenders Benvenuti, Cevoli, Rossi, and Tosi. The midfield may see Golinucci, Capicchioni, and Casadei as likely starters. In attack, Nanni and Sensoli are predicted to support forward Contadini.

Despite their recent victory, San Marino’s historical performance in both friendly and competitive matches suggests they are less favored in Thursday’s encounter. Gibraltar, having remained unbeaten in their last three games, might have the psychological edge and the expectation of securing a win on home soil.