MFA president Dr Joseph Mifsud yesterday urged all national team players to produce a maximum effort next Wednesday in the match against Hungary so as to try and gain the first positive result in this qualifying round.

Addressing a news conference at Ta’ Qali, he said Malta had registered two negative results in the opening two matches, but considering the opposition, then one must come to the conclusion that there has been an improved performance especially in the match against Turkey in Germany.

He said: “This match is very important for us. It is our second home match after the 2-5 defeat to Bosnia. Our players will need a lot of support to raise their performance and give our opponents a good run for their money.”

Belgian officials will be controlling the match which will be played at Ta’ Qali, starting at 7.15pm. The referee is Johny ver Eecke, the assistants are Danny Huens and Vincent Despiegeleer and the fourth official Peter Vervecken.

The match is being shown live on TV, both in Malta and in Hungary.

Admission prices will be the same as those in recent seasons. The following are the authorised retailers: Geraldu Kiosk in Valletta, Eros Stationery in Paceville, Star Tourism of Bugibba and the National Stadium, Ta’ Qali.

The Hungarian team is expected to arrive in Malta on Tuesday at 7.45pm. They will be staying at the Corinthia San Anton Hotel in Attard.

The Malta team is to be accommodated at the Coastline Hotel in Salina Bay.