The Three Lions welcome bottom of Group C, Malta, to Wembley Stadium this week, in a game that the hosts will win. When the two nations met in June, Malta failed to register an attempt at goal all game, as England won 4-0.
England
Times where England struggled through qualifying to make major tournaments are of the past and this current group of individuals has the togetherness and fight to back up the heaps of quality. Gareth Southgate's side are already qualified for the European Championship after just six matches, where they have won five and drew once. They have also netted 19 times and conceded only three goals. As always, Harry Kane has been unstoppable and has scored seven, whilst also registering two assists.
England secured qualification with a 3-1 win over Italy in October. The Three Lions were clinical in front of goal, with Marcus Rashford and Kane (X2) getting on the scoresheet. The group leaders bounced back from an early goal to secure the victory and Jude Bellingham was unplayable on the night.
Malta
Unfortunately for Malta, their optimistic dream of qualifying is now over, as they sit bottom of the Group, losing all seven of their matches. They have conceded 18 goals whilst only netting two themselves. Teddy Teuma is by far the best player in the squad, but he has been unable to inspire his side. Malta have won two of their last 17 games, with their only victories coming against San Marino.
However last time out, Michele Marcoloni's side displayed their best performance in qualifying, as they lost 3-1 to Ukraine. Malta scored the opening goal but by half-time, they were 2-1 down due to an own goal and a penalty. Despite only having 35% possession, they continued to attack and registered 17 attempts at goal.
Verdict?
Now that England are through, the boss may look to rotate his team and provide opportunities to players who are on the fringe of the squad, such as Ollie Watkins, Connor Gallagher and Marc Guehi. There is no doubt that England win this game, but there is little value available from an odds perspective, as they are priced at 1/100, with the visitors standing at 150/1.
The final prediction is England 5-0 Malta.
