The race for the European spots in the YoHealth Malta Premier heats up this Wednesday as Naxxar Lions prepare to face an in-form Valletta FC. With the Top 6 phase in full swing, every point is gold, and both sides have plenty to play for at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.Kick-off is scheduled for Wednesday 15th April, 18:00 CEST.The State of PlayValletta FC head into this fixture with wind in their sails following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Gżira United at the Gozo Stadium. That win, highlighted by a sensational halfway-line strike from Brazilian star Yuri Messias, propelled Thane Micallef’s side to fourth place. Now sitting on 20 points, the Citizens are just two points behind joint-second-placed Ħamrun Spartans and Marsaxlokk, making a top-two finish a very realistic goal.Naxxar Lions, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after a narrow 1-0 defeat to league leaders Floriana. Despite a balanced performance, a first-half penalty was their undoing. The Lions will also be forced to reshuffle their pack as they will be without Ndualu Pahama, who saw red in their last outing following an FVS review.The Odds: What’s the Word at Meridianbet?The market currently favors the momentum of the Citizens. According to the latest Meridianbet odds at the time of writing, Valletta FC are favorites at 1.65 to take all three points.If you fancy the Lions to roar back and pull off an upset, Naxxar are priced at 4.50, while the draw sits at 3.55. Given that Naxxar held their own against Floriana, the draw could be a tempting option for those expecting a tight tactical battle.The odds may change since quotas are variable. (18+) Score a Bonus Before Kick-OffIf you’re looking to back your team this Wednesday, there’s a massive incentive to get involved. New players can jump straight into the Malta Premier action by clicking HERE to claim a €50 No Deposit Welcome Bonus. It’s the perfect way to get in on the Top 6 drama without even having to reach for your wallet!Tactical: Key FactorsYuri Messias (Valletta): The Brazilian is in clinical form, currently sitting as the league’s joint-top scorer. His vision and long-range threat make him the most dangerous man on the pitch.Despite the loss to Floriana, Naxxar proved they can go toe-to-toe with the big guns. With Matthias Debono back in goal, they will look to frustrate Valletta and hit them on the counterThe VerdictValletta have the momentum and the scoring touch of Messias, but Naxxar have proven they are difficult to break down in open play. However, with Pahama suspended and Valletta’s eyes firmly fixed on those top-two spots, the Citizens might just have too much quality on the day.Our Prediction: Naxxar Lions 0-2 Valletta FCWill Valletta continue their surge toward the top two or can Naxxar cause a Top 6 upset? Let us know your predictions!Play responsibly•