The Malta squad received a 'sweet' welcome when they arrived at Hotel Hilton Baku this morning ahead of Saturday's Euro 2016 Group H qualifier.

The players, coaches and Malta FA officials were greeted by hotel managers and chefs who had prepared a cheesecake adorned with the Maltese flag.

The team flew to the Azeri capital today after playing a friendly match against Georgia last night.

Two late goals, the first being high controversial after Jaba Kabkava appeared to nudge the ball past Malta goalkeeper with his arm, gave Georgia a flattering 2-0 win.

The match was intended to aid Malta's preparations for Saturday's qualifier against Azerbaijan, who are still without a point after four Group H qualifiers.

In yesterday's friendly, Malta coach Pietro Ghedin gave a debut to Nigeria-born striker Alfred Effiong, who replaced Jean Paul Farrugia on the hour, and young wing-back Ryan Camenzuli who came on for Steve Borg in the dying stages.
Midfielders Roderick Briffa, Paul Fenech and Ryan Fenech played no part in Wednesday's match as they have some fitness issues.

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