Malta’s national rugby league team, the Malta Knights, will kick off their 2026 European Championship campaign today as they take on Germany in Hattingen at 2pm.The Knights enter this year’s competition in Group C following their relegation from Group B in 2025 and will be looking to make a strong start against a German side that enjoyed an unbeaten campaign last year.With eight potential debutants in the 19-man squad, Malta will be led by caretaker coach and veteran international Kaine Dimech, who is sidelined through injury.Speaking ahead of the encounter, Dimech acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side but expressed confidence in the team’s preparations.“It’ll be a physical battle for sure, but our island is renowned for digging deep and finding the fight whenever asked. This weekend is no different,” he said.Following today’s match, Malta will return home to face Greece next weekend as their European Championship campaign continues.•