by Fan Lounge fanlounge.co.uk
Introduction
Without doubt, football is the biggest sport in Malta. With a rich history and super passionate fans, going to watch a Maltese football match should be on any fans football bucket list. From the Ta’ Qali National Stadium to the Centenary Stadium, you won’t be short for matches to watch and teams to see. But football away days in Malta are about more than just the game itself – they’re a chance to immerse yourself in the local Mediterranean culture, rep a new team, and create lifelong memories. With the upcoming European Qualifiers against England and Italy on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to plan an away day to Malta. In this article, we’ll explore the best football away days in Malta, provide tips for preparing for your trip, and preview the upcoming international games.
The Best Football Away Days in Malta
With Malta having one of the smallest populations in Europe, you might not expect the island to have as many football stadiums as it does. But make no mistake, you won’t be short for choice here. Below we’ve put together a list of some of the stadiums that we recommend visiting for an away game:
Ta’ Qali National Stadium
- The largest stadium in Malta, with a capacity of over 17,000
- Home to the Malta national football team and one of the three stadiums used for Premier League football
- Located in the Ta’ Qali National Park, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
Hibernians Stadium
- Home to Hibernians F.C., one of the most successful clubs in Maltese football history
- Located in the town of Paola, just a short distance from Valletta
- Hosts Premier League matches and is one of the four venues to be used for the UEFA Under-19 Championships this summer.
Centenary Stadium
- A modern stadium located in the town of Ta’ Qali
- Hosts matches of the Under-21 and women’s national teams, the qualifying matches of local teams in UEFA club competitions and domestic matches from the Premier League, Challenge League and Amateur League. Will also host matches from the UEFA Under-19 Championships
Victor Tedesco Stadium
- The stadium of champions Hamrun Spartans F.C.
- Hosts matches from the Challenge League and Amateur League – the second and third tiers of Maltese football
No matter which stadium you choose to visit, you’re sure to experience the passion and excitement of Maltese football. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time and plan your trip accordingly, as some matches may be more popular than others.
Preparing for an Away Day
If you’re planning an away day to Malta, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:
- Book your accommodation early: As with any football event, it’s always a good idea to book your accommodation far in advance to not only ensure availability, but to ensure that you are getting the best prices too. Although one would usually look for hotels or Airbnbs near to the stadium you’ll be visiting for the most convenient experience, the fact that you can reach anywhere in Malta in less than an hour leaves all options possible.
- Research transportation options: Malta has a reliable public transportation system, but it’s important to get to grips with your options ahead of time to avoid any unnecessary confusion on game day. Buses and taxis are both good options, depending on your budget and travel preferences. You’ll generally be paying from €4 per km for a white taxi and even cheaper prices with Bolt, Uber or eCabs, with bus time day fares being much cheaper, starting at just €2 a ticket.
- Arrive early: To really get the full experience of an away day in Malta, you should aim to arrive as early as possible. Not only will you get a taste of the amazing Maltese fan culture, but you’ll also have time to explore the surrounding area, grab a bite to eat, and soak up the local culture before the game begins.
- Rep your team: Maltese football fans are known for their passion and enthusiasm, and many choose to dress up in team colours. We recommend buying yourself a team scarf or shirt to show your support and to embrace yourself in Maltese football. It’ll also give you something to look back on in future too.
Upcoming International Games
So we have a couple of big international games coming up for Malta later this year, with the Maltese hoping to pick up positive results. We’ve put together a little preview for you to take a look at ahead of the upcoming European Qualifiers matches between Malta and England, and Malta and Italy:
Malta vs England
Date: June 16, 2023
Venue: Ta’ Qali National Stadium
History: Malta and England have played each other several times in the past, with England winning all of the previous matches. However, Malta has shown improvement in recent years and will be looking to put up a strong fight on home turf.
Key Players to Watch:
Teddy Teuma (Malta): The captain of Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise produced some fine performances in the UEFA Europa League apart from the Belgian Pro League and his experience should prove to be a valuable asset for the locals.
Joseph Mbong (Malta): The Maltese midfielder is known for his strong defensive skills and could play a key role in preventing England from scoring.
Prediction: While Malta has made progress in recent years, it’s unlikely that they’ll be able to overcome the talent and experience of the English team. However, with the support of their passionate fans and a strong defensive effort, Malta could keep the scoreline respectable.
Italy vs Malta
Date: October 14, 2023
Venue: Stadio San Nicola, Bari
History: This will no doubt be a difficult game for Malta. With Italy winning all of the previous encounters, it’ll be something of a miracle for Malta if they manage to come away with a win. But, like we’ve already said, Malta have made some improvements on the pitch, so it’ll be an interesting match no matter the result.
Key Players to Watch:
Ciro Immobile (Italy): The Lazio striker is one of the top goal scorers in Serie A and will be a major threat to the Maltese defense.
Matthew Guillaumier (Malta): The Hamrun Spartans midfielder had an impressive season for the local champions, claiming the Footballer of the Year award for the second time in three years, being a key player for the Malta national team in recent years
Summary
Football away days in Malta offer a unique and immersive experience for football fans. The island’s stadiums provide the perfect backdrop for a thrilling match day experience. However, away days are more than just the game itself – they’re a chance to explore Maltese culture, join arms with new fans and create unforgettable memories.
If you’re planning an away day to Malta, be sure to book your accommodation early, research transportation options, arrive early to fully experience the atmosphere, and rep your team to show your support. And with upcoming European Qualifiers matches against England and Italy, there’s never been a better time to plan your trip.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or simply looking for a unique travel experience, there’s plenty here for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your team scarf, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Mediterranean.