Karl Izzo will make his competitive debut as Malta coach this evening when he leads the national team in their opening match from the European Championship qualifiers against Portugal in Odense, Denmark.

Izzo, who succeeded Sergio Afric as national coach late last year, has selected a squad of 13 players for the four-day tournament which also features group favourites Russia, Israel, Bulgaria and hosts Denmark.

“I’m really looking forward to our opening match against Portugal,” Izzo told The Times yesterday.

“The team’s preparations have been very good and the players are raring to go.

“No doubt, Russia are the outstanding side but the other teams in the group seem to be on an even keel.

“It is important that we start with a win as it would provide an injection of confidence for our players for the rest of the tournament.”

After today’s match against the Portuguese, the Maltese will play twice tomorrow. They face Russia in the afternoon before meeting Denmark in the evening session.

On Saturday, Malta take on Bulgaria before their final match against Israel on Sunday morning.