Recap

In a gripping semifinal showdown at the FIBA European Small Countries Championships, Malta emerged victorious over Gibraltar with a final score of 85-79. The game unfolded as a tale of resilience and strategy across all four quarters, with both teams showcasing their best on the hardwood. Malta’s strategic manoeuvres and crucial free throws in the closing minutes ultimately secured their path to the championship game, leaving Gibraltar to reflect on a hard-fought contest that showcased the competitive spirit of the tournament.

In an intense first quarter, Mohamed El Yettefti initiated the scoring for Gibraltar, followed by a quick response from David Bugeja of Malta. Throughout the quarter, both teams exchanged leads with notable contributions from Miguel Ortega and Thomas Yome for Gibraltar, and Sam Deguara and Kurt Cassar for Malta. Key plays included Deguara’s strong presence under the basket, securing multiple rebounds and free throws. Despite missed opportunities from beyond the arc, Malta remained competitive. A late offensive foul by Bugeja allowed Gibraltar to maintain their slender lead as the quarter ended.

In the second quarter, Malta outscored Gibraltar 26-16, extending their lead to 46-36. The period commenced with a flurry of activity as both teams exchanged missed shots and turnovers. Malta’s Deguara was particularly dominant, contributing crucial rebounds and points, including a powerful dunk at the 3:50 mark. Gibraltar struggled with turnovers, allowing Malta to capitalise, notably with a three-pointer from Sjoberg at 2:34. Despite successful attempts from Gibraltar, including a three-pointer by John Cassaglia, Malta maintained control. The period concluded with Deguara scoring again, highlighting Malta’s effective use of their big man to dominate the paint and secure the lead.

In the third quarter, Malta pulled ahead, extending their lead to 68-55 against Gibraltar. The period was marked by Malta’s aggressive rebounding, with Deguara’s assists and pivotal plays under the basket dominating, while Gibraltar’s Jamie McGrail fought back with significant contributions, including a series of layups. Despite Gibraltar’s efforts, including key steals by Sam Buxton and timely shots by Ortega, Malta’s consistent scoring and strategic ball movement kept them in control, ending the quarter with a comfortable lead.

The final quarter of the game between Gibraltar and Malta showcased a riveting battle, with Malta securing an 85-79 victory. The quarter started with a Gibraltar lead of 68-55. Early turnovers by Deguara allowed Gibraltar’s Ortega to reduce the deficit with free throws. Gibraltar maintained pressure with a three-pointer from Yome, narrowing the gap to 70-62. Malta’s Cassar and Deguara responded with inside shots, but Gibraltar kept pace with Ortega’s layups and free throws. Key substitutions on both sides saw fresh players trying to maintain the tempo. Despite Gibraltar’s efforts, Malta capitalized on offensive rebounds and free throws, with Deguara and Nathan Xuereb making crucial points.

In the final minute, Ortega’s missed three-pointer was followed by fouls that gave Deguara opportunities to extend Malta’s lead from the free-throw line. Gibraltar’s last-second attempts, including another missed three-pointer by Ortega, sealed their fate as Malta held on for a close win. Both teams demonstrated resilience, but Malta’s efficiency at the free-throw line and crucial rebounds made the difference in the final moments.