MALTA SHOW SPIRIT BUT CROATIA SEAL COMFORTABLE WIN

Malta endured a tough evening at home as Croatia claimed a 3-0 victory in the second of two international friendlies on Monday.

The match began cautiously, with both sides struggling to dominate possession. Croatia threatened first when Ivana Rudelić’s close-range effort was superbly parried by Maya Cachia. Malta responded through Rachel Cuschieri, whose long-range strike was comfortably saved by Doris Bačić. Cachia continued to impress, denying Karla Kurkutović and Rudelić with sharp stops to keep the score level.

Malta’s best chance came in the 36th minute when Maria Farrugia weaved past defenders to set up Cuschieri, but her shot was blocked. Croatia broke through in the 41st minute as Maja Joščak powered home a header from a right-wing cross.

Just after the restart, Rudelić doubled the lead, capitalising on a misplaced pass to finish clinically. Malta battled hard in midfield, but Croatia sealed the win in the 75th minute when Kurkutović converted from close range.

Despite the defeat, Malta showed resilience and promise under coach Manuela Tesse, concluding a challenging yet valuable international window.

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