Malta kicked off their UEFA Boys U16 Development Tournament campaign with a 1-0 victory over Armenia, thanks to a second-half strike from captain Ryan Debono.
The match began at a frantic pace, with both teams eager to build from the back. Armenia registered the first shot in the 6th minute, narrowly missing the post. Malta responded in the 15th minute when Andre’ Zammit met a free-kick cross but headed wide.
As the game progressed, Malta gained control, winning key duels. In the 19th minute, Justin Pena Serna’s long-range shot was pushed out for a corner, leading to a chaotic sequence where three close-range attempts were either blocked, saved, or struck the crossbar.
Despite Malta’s pressure, Armenia remained dangerous on the counter. Goalkeeper Vincent Tabone made an important save in the 25th minute, while Armen Ghazaryan fired just wide in the 33rd minute. The first half ended goalless, with both sides showing attacking intent.
Malta started the second half strongly, dominating midfield battles. Jamie Nwoko came close in the 55th minute, his header forcing a save from Narek Nazaretyan. Pena Serna then missed narrowly in the 64th minute, heading just wide from a Nathan Clinton cross.
The breakthrough came in the 77th minute when Debono latched onto a through pass, feinted past defenders, and smashed the ball into the roof of the net.
Armenia pressed for an equalizer in stoppage time, but Malta’s defense held firm to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win.
Next up, Malta faces Gibraltar on Wednesday, 26th February, with kickoff at 10:00 hrs.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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