Malta’s women’s national team earned a well-deserved 1-1 draw against Hungary at the Centenary Stadium in an international friendly on Tuesday. The result was a positive response following their 3-1 defeat in the first match of the doubleheader just days earlier.
Both sides had chances in a goalless first half, with Hungary applying early pressure. Anna Csiki set up Diana Czanyi in the 24th minute, but her shot flew narrowly wide. Malta’s goalkeeper, Giulia D’Antuono, was outstanding, pulling off key saves, including a smart stop from a Nemeth cross-shot in the 43rd minute to ensure the teams went into the break level.
Hungary took the lead immediately after the restart when Henrietta Czizsar unleashed a powerful strike that beat D’Antuono in the 46th minute. However, Malta responded swiftly. Just seven minutes later, Haley Bugeja converted a penalty after Maria Farrugia was fouled in the box by Diana Nemeth.
The Maltese defence, led by Charlene Zammit, held firm under pressure as Hungary searched for a winner. Zammit’s crucial block on an effort from Csiki in the 54th minute highlighted a determined defensive performance.
The match ended in a stalemate, a promising result for Malta as both teams look ahead to their UEFA Nations League campaigns next year.The Mġarr United goalkeeper was a standout performer, making several key saves to keep Malta in the game and showcasing her value ahead of future international fixtures.
Match Details
- Malta XI: D’Antuono, Gabriella Zahra (Kailey Willis 46’), Lipman (Jessica Dimech 85’), Sciberras, Maya Lucia, Shona Zammit, Charlene Zammit, Brenda Borg, Emma Xuereb, Maria Farrugia (Ylenia Carabott 90’), Haley Bugeja.
- Hungary XI: Brzykcy, Csizsar (Fenyvesi 68’), Papai (Kajan 68’), Szabo (Mezsaros 82’), Csiki (Viktoria Nagy 82’), Diana Nemeth, Czanyi (Sikler 85’), Hanna Nemeth, Kovacs, Zeller, Fanni Nagy.
- Referee: Maria Marotta (Italy)
