Recap

In the opening game of the FIBA Under-16 Women’s EuroBasket Division C championship, Malta faced off against Albania, ultimately falling short with a final score of 43-50. Despite a valiant effort throughout the four quarters, Malta couldn’t overcome Albania’s consistent play and critical scoring runs.

Malta’s top scorers on the day were Kirstie Sammut and Shanice Farrugia, who led their team with an impressive scoring display, netting 10 points each.

In the opening quarter, Albania established an early lead. Malta started strong with Rebecca Fenech Pace scoring the first basket. However, Albania responded swiftly with Sidorela Zyla and Izabel Kacorri making key shots. Malta struggled with turnovers, which Albania capitalised on. Notable moments included Aurora Dhedhes scoring crucial free throws and jump shots, extending Albania’s lead. Malta’s attempts to close the gap were thwarted by Albania’s solid defence and key rebounds by Kacorri. Despite Malta’s efforts, they trailed by eight points at the end of the first quarter as Albania concluded the period at 19-11.

In the second quarter, Malta showed determination, with Sammut and Fenech Pace making key plays early on. However, Albania’s Zyla and Kacorri continued to be formidable opponents, adding to Albania’s score. Despite Malta’s efforts, including several steals and offensive rebounds, they struggled with missed opportunities and turnovers. Albania capitalised on these errors, extending their lead with critical shots from Erika Mucenji and Melissa Nikaj. By the end of the quarter, Albania’s solid defence and efficient scoring ensured their advantage going into the half-time break leading 29-20.

The third quarter began with Malta trailing Albania. The early minutes saw both teams struggling to find their rhythm, with missed opportunities from both sides. Malta’s Ylenia Ferrando showed resilience, making a key defensive rebound and later scoring a jump shot to close the gap to 24-33 at the 6:57 mark. However, Albania’s Emma Cela was a force to be reckoned with, adding crucial points and making defensive rebounds. Midway through the quarter, Albania’s Dhedhes and Mucenji extended their lead with solid inside scoring, pushing the score to 28-40. Malta fought back, with Shanice Farrugia and Claire Portelli making attempts, but Albania’s defence remained steadfast. The period ended with Malta still trailing, 28-43, highlighting Albania’s defensive prowess and Malta’s need to capitalise on their chances.

In the final quarter, Malta fought hard to bring the game closer to parity. Despite early turnovers and missed shots, Malta closed the gap with key plays. Cela’s three-pointer extended Albania’s lead to 46-30. Malta’s Sammut and Portelli then narrowed the score with a series of jump shots and free throws. Sammut’s late three-pointer brought Malta closer, but Albania maintained control. Defensive rebounds and assists from Farrugia and Lara Micallef kept Malta in contention, but time ran out, leaving them seven points short at the buzzer.