Mifsud brace earns Malta friendly win

MALTA-2, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC-1

Striker Michael Mifsud scored a first-half brace as Malta beat the Central African Republic 2-1 in a friendly football match at the National Stadium.

Malta's victory was deserved as they created the better chances and defended well when the Africans upped the tempo in search of an equaliser in the second half.

The win should boost the morale of the Maltese players ahead of next month's tough Euro 2012 home qualifier against Croatia.

Malta enjoyed an excellent start as, after just 40 seconds, they were awarded a penalty. Michael Mifsud made an intelligent run into the box to reach Andrew Cohen's pass but the Malta captain was tripped by the advancing Emmanuel Yezzoat.

Turkish referee Tolga Ozkalfa whistled for a penalty and Mifsud made no mistake from the spot.

This early breakthrough was a boost for Malta who went close to doubling their lead when Daniel Bogdanovic, running clear on the right, advanced into the box but his pass-shot just eluded Mifsud.

The Central African Republic managed to equalise on 26 minutes, Hilaire Momi driving home from inside the box after pouncing on a deflection from the Malta defender who had failed to close down David Manga.

The exchanges became more balance as the first half progressed but three minutes from half-time, Malta restored their lead. Ryan Fenech, who partnered Gareth Sciberras in midfielder, hit an excellent through-pass to Mifsud who sped into the box and chipped the ball over Yezzoat.

The second half was short on scoring chances despite the visitors' efforts to get an equaliser. Andrew Cohen drove over after being set up by Andre Schembri early in the second half and Christian Caruana, who was making his debut for Malta after coming for Schembri, had a central effort blocked by Yezzoat.

Five minutes from the end, Yezzoat deflected Caruana's cross towards Cohen but the latter's drive was blocked by Serge Kogui-Souchan.