Malta bounce back with impressive 14–8 win over South Africa

The Maltese women’s water polo team delivered the perfect response to their heavy defeat against Croatia, producing a composed and clinical performance to overcome South Africa 14–8 and secure their best-ever finish at these championships. The victory guarantees Malta a place in the play-offs for positions nine to twelve, with Argentina awaiting on Saturday.

South Africa struck twice early on, but Malta remained unfazed. Elena Borg levelled the score with a penalty and a man-up goal, before further strikes from Chloe Amato, Marlerose Tully and Borg turned the match around for a 5–3 first-session lead. Two quick goals pushed Malta 7–3 ahead, though South Africa briefly narrowed the gap. Tully’s late finish restored an 8–5 cushion at half-time.

Amato and Martha Perici Ferrante extended Malta’s advantage to 10–7 heading into the final quarter. The hosts closed out the match in style, scoring four more through Francesca Paolella, Amato and an Ella Miceli double to seal a confident and deserved victory.

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