Late Penalty Denies Malta Famous Away Win in Lithuania

The Maltese national team were held to a controversial 1-1 draw away to Lithuania, with Georgian referee Giorgi Kruashvili dominating the headlines after a string of contentious decisions against the Maltese players in the dying minutes of the match.

With several key players absent — including Camenzuli, Teuma, Guillaumier and new high-profile addition Brimmer — coach De Leo opted for a fresh 4-2-3-1 system, abandoning the usual 3-4-3 in search of greater control in midfield.

The Maltese side grew into the match, gradually taking command in the latter stages of the first half. Their high press unsettled the Lithuanian defence, forcing errors and keeping play largely pinned in the hosts’ half.

After the break, Malta continued to create chances but failed to find the clinical touch needed to convert their dominance into goals. Lithuania, meanwhile, looked to exploit their physicality on the counter, attempting to capitalise on any Maltese mistake.

Ironically, Malta’s breakthrough came during their least dominant spell. In the 82nd minute, a swift counter-attack ended with Alexander Satariano making amends for earlier misses, slotting home from a precise Adam Magri Overand assist.

The drama intensified late on. Youngster Jake Azzopardi was sent off after slipping and mistiming a challenge — deemed dangerous play by referee Kruashvili. To compound Malta’s frustration, Lithuania were awarded a highly questionable penalty in the 96th minute, which Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis calmly converted to rescue a point for the home side.

In a final twist, Kruashvili handed Lithuanian midfielder Edgaras Utkus a second yellow card, a decision many Maltese fans dismissed as little more than a consolation gesture after the earlier controversy.

#MaltaDaily