Two first-half goals shattered Malta’s hopes of breaking the duck in the UEFA u-17 qualification group as hosts Slovenia marched on to a 2-0 victory which enabled them to secure a berth in the Elite Round as one of the best five third-placed teams in the preliminary stage.

The Slovenians took time to adjust themselves into the game and when they did so, they immediately forged ahead through Ana Milovic on 25 minutes.

Vita Zolek wrapped up the victory ten minutes later as the hosts secured the three points inside the first 45 minutes.

After the change of ends, the Maltese attempted to push forward seeking their third goal in this group with coach Frank Schembri also introducing offensive players on the field, but the changes did not reap the desired dividends.

This was Malta’s second appearance in this tournament after making their debut last year.

In 2016 the Maltese had managed to finish third in the mini-tournament after they had beaten Montenegro.