Belarus friendly reflects League B physicality – Tesse

The Malta women’s national team began preparations for their return to League B in the UEFA Women’s Nations League with a 2-0 defeat to Belarus.

Manuela Tesse’s side will compete in Europe’s second tier during next year’s 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers, with their group-stage opponents to be revealed during the draw on November 4.

This friendly served as a valuable test against a side ranked 30 places higher in the FIFA standings and boasting considerable League B experience, although Belarus have since been relegated to League C.

Under a new coaching setup, Belarus showcased a more possession-based and aggressive style of play compared to their previous meeting with Malta, a 1-1 draw at the Tony Bezzina Stadium in 2023.

After the match, Tesse admitted that fatigue played a key role in the second half as Belarus’ physicality began to dominate. The Italian coach also noted that Malta’s inability to capitalise on first-half chances proved costly.

“This was League B football, very physical, and we need to improve,” Tesse remarked.

The two teams will meet again on Tuesday in a non-official friendly that will not affect FIFA rankings, with Tesse hinting at possible experimental changes to the starting formation.

A recurring challenge for Malta remains the lack of attacking fullbacks capable of pushing high, providing width, and creating overloads in advanced areas. As a result, much of the attacking play continues to rely on the individual brilliance of Haley Bugeja and Maria Farrugia, along with Rachel Cuschieri’s well-delivered set pieces.

Forward Kailey Willis continues to shoulder the dirty work up front, holding up the ball and drawing fouls, though she is often left isolated due to limited support in attack.

“These are situations we need to improve,” Tesse said. “For example, having our wingers play more narrowly.”

Another issue might be the lack of attacking depth on the bench, though Tesse remains optimistic about the emerging generation of young talent. Among those mentioned were Lexine Farrugia (Roma Primavera) and Christa Chetcuti Ganado (Leicester City U21), both standout prospects from Malta’s U19 squad.

Tesse also clarified the situation regarding Sara Saliba, the former Milan forward now playing for Swieqi United and leading the domestic league with nine goals.

“Sara remains available for selection,” Tesse confirmed after Saliba did not make herself available for this double-header.