
Malta suffered a heavy 8-0 loss to the Netherlands in their second World Cup qualifier, played in Groningen.
The Dutch side, full of top players, scored three quick goals in the first 20 minutes, making it clear they were in control from the start.
This result matches their biggest-ever win against Malta, last seen in 1990. Malta coach Emilio De Leo made several changes to the team, including debuts for Gabriel Mentz and Jake Azzopardi.
But even with these changes, Malta struggled to handle the speed and skill of the Dutch.
Memphis Depay scored twice, with other goals coming from Van Dijk, Xavi Simons, Noa Lang, Micky van de Ven, and a brace from Donyell Malen. Malta had a few chances through Satariano and Guillaumier, but couldn’t break through.
Malta’s next match is against Lithuania on 4 September. Captain Matthew Guillaumier will miss it due to suspension.
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