Malta displayed remarkable tenacity and fortitude in a thrilling European Championship qualifying match, despite an eventual 3-1 loss to Ukraine. The crowd was taken aback when Paul Mbong scored just the second goal of the campaign for the mediterranean island, giving the underdogs a brief advantage. Unfortunately, Ryan Camenzuli’s own goal levelled the score, Artem Dovbyk’s penalty gave Ukraine the lead, and Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk’s late goal clinched the victory.

Malta’s efforts on the pitch were not in vain; their performance against even a strong foe as Ukraine was well regarded. Ukraine emerged victorious, but the game also demonstrated Malta’s development and promise in the European football league.