Malta Edge Argentina in 16-15 Thriller to Reach Placement Play-Off

Malta survived a dramatic late surge from Argentina to claim a thrilling 16-15 victory and book a place in Sunday’s 9th–12th place play-off against Brazil. Milan Cirovic’s side looked to be in full control when they opened a 16-12 lead in the final session, only to concede three late goals that set up a tense finale. However, the hosts held firm to secure a hard‑earned win.

Ivan Nagaev once again stole the spotlight, finishing as Malta’s top scorer with an outstanding seven-goal performance. Malta made a blistering start, racing to a 3-0 lead through Nagaev’s brace and a Luigi Dimech strike, but Argentina fought back to level the first session 3-3.

The second and third sessions were goal-filled battles, with Malta edging ahead 8-7 and later 12-11 thanks to goals from Nagaev, Jeremy Abela, Elijah Schembri, Jake Cachia and Julian Valletta.

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