The maiden appearance on the international stage as newly appointed with a FIFA badge, for female referee Joanna Vassallo.
Ms. Vassallo has been entrusted to be part of the officiating team for the European Womenā€™s Under-17 Championship 2024, Round 2 / Group A5, being contested in the Netherlands, as of yesterday (Thursday).
This mini-tournament is scheduled to be rounded off on Wednesday next week.
A total of three appointments for Joanna, two as a match official, the other tasked with the role of fourth official.
High-profile football nations are participating in this four-team tournament, namely Spain, The Netherlands, who are hosting this tournament, Ukraine and Turkey.
An Under 17 Qualifying tournament that albeit the age group will instill experience in local match official Joanna Vassallo in this opening phase of her international journey as FIFA badge referee.
On Thursday Joanna officiated the opening match in the tournament between Spain and Turkey.
A fine performance by the local representative controlling the match that saw Spain recording a 9-0 thumping win over the Turks.
Next up for Joanna is a fourth official assignment as the Netherlands rub shoulders with Turkey on Sunday.
All rounded off with the local match official entrusted to control on the final day when all teams play simultaneously, she has been appointed to officiate the contest between Turkey and Ukraine on Wednesday next week.
All this means Joanna Vassallo will be involved in all Turkey matches in this U17 mini-tournament in the Netherlands.
The Malta FA would like to send its heartfelt best wishes to Joanna Vassallo on this maiden experience, stepping in as FIFA badge referee on the international stage.
