2026 EURO BEACH SOCCER LEAGUE – DIVISION B
16.07.2026, Batumi, Georgia

MALTA…2
NORWAY…3

Malta’s Beach Soccer National Team produced a spirited comeback but ultimately suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to Norway in their opening match of the 2026 Euro Beach Soccer League, currently being held in Georgia.

Despite falling three goals behind, Indrek Palm’s side showed tremendous character and resilience, pushing Norway all the way in an entertaining five-goal encounter.

Norway made the perfect start, taking the lead after just 2 minutes and 5 seconds when Hellebust found the net. The Scandinavians doubled their advantage only 40 seconds later as Risanger finished from close range to leave Malta with a mountain to climb.

Malta responded positively after the break and came close to reducing the deficit, with efforts from Venuto and Demanuele both striking the woodwork. However, it was Norway who struck next, with Hellebust producing a spectacular finish at the 12:17 mark to make it 3-0.

The Maltese side refused to give up and their persistence was rewarded in the second period. Andre Joe Cutajar calmly converted a penalty in the 22nd minute after Gaare fouled Caruana inside the nine-metre area, giving Malta renewed belief.

With momentum on their side, Malta continued to create numerous chances, forcing the Norwegian goalkeeper into a series of outstanding saves that prevented the deficit from being reduced further.

Brandon Lee Bray set up a thrilling finish when he brilliantly converted a direct free-kick in the 35th minute to make it 3-2. Malta piled on the pressure in the closing stages, hitting the post once again and carving out several excellent opportunities, but Norway held firm to secure the victory.

Although disappointed with the result, Malta can take plenty of positives from an impressive second-half display that demonstrated their determination and attacking quality.

The Maltese national team will now turn their attention to their second fixture of the tournament, where they face hosts Georgia on Friday, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 CEST.

Malta
Muscat, Barbara, Desira, Caruana, Agius, Venuto (c), Schembri, Camenzuli, Cutajar, Barone, Bray, Cassar, Demanuele, Falzon.
Coach: Indrek Palm

Norway
Brekken, Gaare, Risanger, Paulos, Haga, Hellebust, Li, Haaland (c), Buland, Dyngeland, Skotty.
Coach: Rune Kandal

Referees:
1st – Andrei Karhu (Estonia)
2nd- Susanna Fiammetta (Italy)
3rd – Nail Naghiyev (Azerbaijan)
Timekeeper – Ago Kartmann (Estonia)
Coordinator – Michele Conti (Italy)