The European Nations Hockey Challenge II began yesterday at the Corradino Complex with the opening matches between the four teams contesting this tournament. This is the first time that the Hockey Association of Malta is hosting an EHF-recognised competition for national teams.
In yesterday's opening games, the Malta national team, under the charge of coach Anthony Tabone, were off to an excellent start, beating Cyprus 5-1. Josef Antonelli was on target four times for the hosts with the other goal coming from David Agius. Earlier, Azerbaijan had the better of Denmark 2-1. The tournament resumes today with Denmark taking on Cyprus at 3 p.m. followed by Malta-Azerbaijan at 5.30 p.m.