Malta suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to Norway in their opening match of the 2026 Euro Beach Soccer League Division B, despite producing a determined second-half comeback in Batumi, Georgia.
The Norwegians made a flying start, taking the lead after just over two minutes through Hellebust. Only 40 seconds later, Risanger doubled Norway’s advantage with a close-range finish, leaving Malta with an uphill task.
Malta responded positively in the second period and came close to reducing the deficit, with both Darren Venuto and Demanuele striking the post. However, it was Norway who struck again, as Hellebust scored his second of the match with a spectacular effort to make it 3-0.
Coach Indrek Palm’s side refused to give up and were rewarded in the 22nd minute when André Joe Cutajar converted from the penalty spot after Caruana was fouled inside the nine-metre area.
The goal lifted Malta, who continued to create opportunities and tested the Norwegian goalkeeper on several occasions. However, an impressive display from the Norwegian shot-stopper kept the Maltese attackers at bay.
Malta found another breakthrough in the third period when Brandon Lee Bray scored directly from a free-kick in the 35th minute, reducing the deficit to just one goal.
The Maltese side pushed relentlessly for an equaliser in the closing stages, hitting the post once more and creating several dangerous chances, but Norway held on to secure the victory.
Malta will look to bounce back on Friday when they face hosts Georgia in their second match of the tournament, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 CEST.
