The national team needs to overturn a 2-0 defeat suffered in last week’s first leg at the National Stadium, and although the odds are clearly stacked against the Maltese players, De Leo and Bonello told their team-mates to show a stronger mentality and keep believing that they can overturn the tie.
Second-half goals from Vincent Thill and Mathias Olesen left Malta with a mountain to climb, but De Leo does not doubt that his players can still have their say.
“In the past few days, we analysed our performance against Luxembourg and it was clear that we were not deadly enough in front of goal and committed some costly defensive mistakes for which we paid dearly,” De Leo said.
“We conceded two goals and did not score. We were not precise and not attentive enough.
“During the past few days, we worked a lot on our finishing and timing, as well as trying to be more aggressive in our approach. The squad has focused heavily on missed chances and decision-making in key moments.
“We need to face the game with a good attitude – be courageous and determined. The message to the players is to respect our game plan and express our abilities.”
De Leo also acknowledged the quality of the opposition, while insisting Malta must concentrate on its own identity and strengths.
“They are good opponents, but we need the desire to play and to show what we can do,” he added.
A notable development ahead of the match was the departure of midfielder Teddy Teuma, who returned to Belgium earlier in the day.
De Leo praised his influence both on and off the pitch.
“He is a leader and a qualitative player, but the message he left the team – the words he used shows that he believes in this group. That is a strong stimulus for us,” he said.
The coach also underlined the importance of squad depth, highlighting the positive impact of substitutes in the first leg.
“All players who came on did so with courage and determination,” he said, referring to the combinations and energy brought late in the game.
With one final training session remaining, De Leo confirmed that decisions, including Teuma’s replacement, would be made after further evaluation.
While acknowledging that Luxembourg hold the advantage, De Leo remains optimistic.
“One goal changes everything,” he stated, pointing to the psychological swing that could come with scoring. We must show the right attitude and be proud. We are here thanks to the sacrifices of this team, and we must face our opponents with belief, regardless of their ranking.”
Bonello echoed his coach’s sentiments and said that one cannot think much on what happened, as that was part of the past. However, he said that nothing is lost yet, making a clear reference to recent away victories of the national team over Luxembourg.
“Every game has its own story. Looking back won’t make a difference,” he said.
“Last Thursday, we had six clear chances. We need to be more attentive, avoid conceding, and make sure we score
“The most important factor is how we approach the game. We need to enjoy the occasion and try to show our personality.
“Confidence has been lacking at times, but I am fully convinced of the team’s potential. In the world of football, there have been games decided in extra time – so anything can happen.”
De Leo is boosted by the return from suspension of one of the most in-form players in the Maltese Premier League, Joseph Mbong, scorer of ten league goals for Ħamrun Spartans this season.
His pace and power could be crucial to further boost Malta’s forward line in such a decisive match.