Malta U-23 lose 3-1 to Italy's Lega Pro selection

Malta's newly-formed U-23 team suffered a 3-1 defeat to Italy's Lega Pro Selection in its opening match of the International Challenge Trophy at the National Stadium this evening.

Three goals inside the opening 38 minutes all but killed Maltese hopes of a positive debut as Italy's young players made the most of their opponents' low-key performance in the first half.

Fabrizio Poli headed Italy in front after eight minutes after meeting a cross from Marco Verratti. Italy doubled their lead eight minutes later when Luca Scapuzzi poked the ball hone from close range after being set up by Verratti. The latter put Italy 3-0 up seven minutes from half-time from the penalty spot after Malta goalkeeper Matthew Felice tripped the advancing Scapuzzi inside the box.

Three half-time substitutions by Malta coach Carmel Busuttil lifted the hosts' performance.

Malta dominated for the best part of the second half but their efforts only produced one goal courtesy of substitute Angus Buhagiar with 16 minutes remaining.

Italy goalkeeper Fabio Gadignani denied Quilin Refalo and Ian Zammit and Clayton Failla's strong drive from outside the box cannoned off the crossbar as Malta took the game to their younger opponents in the second half.