FIFA World Cup qualifiers 2026
Finland….0
Malta…….1
Malta wrote a memorable page in its football history on a cold night in Helsinki, defeating Finland 1–0 to celebrate a first-ever victory in FIFA World Cup qualifying. Substitute Jake Grech was the hero, producing a brilliant right-footed strike nine minutes from time with what proved to be Malta’s only shot on target throughout the entire match.
It was a moment that capped an extraordinary defensive performance, with goalkeeper Henry Bonello playing a vital role after finishing the match with six crucial saves that repeatedly kept Finland at bay.
Finland controlled large parts of the game and created several dangerous opportunities, especially in the first half, but Malta showed tremendous discipline and resilience. Bonello denied Antman, Markhiev and Pohjanpalo with outstanding stops early on, while the defensive unit of Pepe, Shaw, Muscat, Mentz and Corbalan threw themselves into blocks and clearances as the pressure mounted.
The turning point came in the 79th minute when coach Michele Marcolini introduced Jake Grech and Gabriel Mentz. Just two minutes later, after Mentz won a free kick deep inside Malta’s half, the ball worked its way forward to Ilyas Chouaref, who found Grech in space. The Floriana midfielder struck instinctively from outside the area, guiding the ball into the bottom left corner to silence the Helsinki crowd and ignite Maltese celebrations.
Finland pushed hard for an equaliser, forcing corners and half-chances in the closing moments, but Malta’s determination held firm through the three minutes of added time. Bonello remained alert, while Shaw, Satariano and Chouaref provided vital last-minute interventions to preserve the clean sheet.
When the final whistle arrived at the 94th minute, the Maltese players embraced each other in disbelief and pride. A historic 1–0 victory had been secured, Malta’s first ever win in World Cup qualifying, earned through sheer grit, unity and a single moment of inspiration.
