Malta welcome Gibraltar to the National Stadium at Ta’ Qali on Thursday as the UEFA Nations League campaign continues.The Group D1 match kicks off at 8:45pm, with Malta looking to build on a positive start after defeating Andorra 2-1 in their opening fixture.Emilio De Leo’s side then followed that result with a 2–0 friendly victory over Liechtenstein, giving the national team further confidence ahead of their return to competitive action.Malta looking to maintain momentumMalta produced a determined performance in Andorra, recovering from a difficult opening period to claim all three points.The result gave the Reds an ideal start to their Nations League campaign and placed added importance on Thursday’s home fixture. Another victory would put Malta in a strong position in the group before the second meeting with Andorra on 4th October.The 2-0 win over Liechtenstein also allowed De Leo to assess his squad, with several players pushing for starting places. Malta will now aim to combine the attacking confidence shown in recent matches with the defensive discipline required in a competitive fixture.Gibraltar seeking a responseGibraltar began their Nations League campaign with a goalless draw against Andorra.They also drew 0–0 with São Tomé and Príncipe in a recent friendly, meaning they have kept clean sheets in their last two matches but have also struggled to find the net.Gibraltar will know that another disciplined defensive display could make the match difficult for Malta, particularly if they manage to keep the contest level into the second half.Malta have won their two previous meetings with Gibraltar, including a 1-0 friendly victory in 2023. However, Thursday’s match will carry greater significance because of the Nations League points at stake.Match detailsFixture: Malta v GibraltarCompetition: UEFA Nations League, Group D1Date: Thursday, 1st October 2026Kick-off: 8:45pmVenue: National Stadium, Ta’ QaliMeridianbet oddsMeridianbet currently prices Malta at 1.28 in the Early Payout +2 market, with the draw available at 4.50 and Gibraltar at 10.00.In the Early Payout +1 market, Malta are priced at 1.17, while the draw is 4.80 and Gibraltar are 4.30.For the Total Goals market, Over 2.5 goals is available at 1.95, while Under 2.5 goals is priced at 1.76.Malta are also priced at 1.28 to score the first goal. Gibraltar are available at 5.00, while the price for no team to score is 9.80.Odds are subject to change.The Early Payout offer is subject to the applicable terms and conditions.PredictionMalta will be expected to control possession and create the clearer chances at home. Gibraltar’s defensive organisation could keep the visitors competitive, but Malta’s recent results and greater attacking options should give them the advantage.Prediction: Malta 2-0 GibraltarEligible new customers can also claim Meridianbet’s €50 Welcome Bonus, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.Play responsibly•