Recap

In their second game of the FIBA U16 Eurobasket Division C campaign, Malta faced a challenging test against Albania, ultimately falling short with a score of 49-88. 

After a narrow defeat to Moldova on day one, Malta sought to bounce back with a stronger performance. However, Albania’s dominant display, characterised by efficient shooting and solid defence, proved too much for the Maltese squad.

Kai Fabri led Malta’s scoring with 13 points, the team’s only double-digit scorer of the day. Despite Fabri’s efforts, Malta struggled throughout the game to maintain possession and convert scoring opportunities.

Albania established a commanding lead in the first quarter, ending with a score of 27-4. The Albanian team’s aggressive defensive play and efficient scoring were overwhelming. Preston White’s series of steals and key baskets contributed significantly to Albania’s early advantage. Malta, despite efforts from Fabri and Nicholas Zammit, struggled with turnovers and missed opportunities. Albania capitalised on these errors, maintaining a strong defensive presence throughout the period.

In the second quarter, Albania extended their lead to 46-21 by halftime, outscoring Malta 25-17. Malta continued to struggle with offensive consistency, plagued by missed shots and turnovers. Albania made the most out of defensive rebounds and fast breaks, with strong performances from Enes Bilali and Stiv Qeli. Although Michelangelo Spiteri made some late key plays for Malta, they were unable to significantly narrow the gap by halftime.

In the third quarter, Malta faced an uphill battle against a dominant Albanian team, trailing 34-76 by the end of the quarter. Despite early efforts by Fabri, White’s sharp shooting extended Albania’s lead. Defensive lapses and turnovers hindered Malta, allowing Albania’s Eno Kotori and Alvi Leskoviku to score efficiently. Malta struggled offensively against Albania’s aggressive defence, which generated steals and fast-break opportunities.

In the fourth quarter, despite defensive rebounds by Eric Fenech Pace and crucial plays by Kyle Galea and Krusmir Fabri, Malta couldn’t bridge the scoring gap. Albania’s disciplined defence and effective shooting, particularly from Aaron Qyrfycja and Kejdi Lame, secured a commanding lead. Malta’s inability to convert free throws and capitalise on turnovers proved decisive, highlighting areas for improvement ahead of future matchups.