Malta’s women’s national team produced another memorable performance as Aurélien Cousin’s side claimed their third win of the competition to guarantee a top-10 finish — the country’s best-ever result in these championships.

The Maltese side will now face Germany on Sunday in the play-off for ninth place, with the match scheduled to start at 1pm.

Elena Borg was the standout performer for Malta, scoring six goals in a superb display, while Chloe Amato made a major contribution with a hat-trick.

Tight Opening Exchanges

The match began at a high tempo, with both teams trading goals in a fiercely contested opening session.

Argentina struck first, but Malta responded strongly. Two quick goals from Amato, followed by another from Borg, helped the hosts turn the game around and move into a 3-2 lead.

Deadlock at Half-Time

The second session proved far more defensive, with chances limited at both ends. Argentina eventually found the equaliser, sending the teams into the halfway stage locked at 3-3.

Borg Inspires Malta Charge

Malta raised their level after the interval and took control in the third session, driven by an inspired Elena Borg.

The Maltese attacker struck a brilliant hat-trick in the period to put her side 6-4 ahead and give them a valuable cushion heading into the closing stages.

Dramatic Finish

Argentina refused to surrender and mounted a late comeback in the final session, drawing level at 7-7 with just under three minutes remaining.

However, Malta showed tremendous character under pressure. Borg struck again before Chloe Amato added her third of the match to secure a famous victory for the home side.

Best-Ever Achievement

The win not only underlined Malta’s progress on the international stage, but also confirmed the team’s highest-ever placing in the tournament. Attention now turns to Sunday’s clash with Germany, where Malta will aim to finish ninth and complete a remarkable campaign.