World Cup Qualifier

Malta 0 Sweden 1

A late own goal by Ian Azzopardi handed Sweden victory at Ta' Qali this evening, and fresh hopes of a World Cup berth.

The unfortunate goal came in the 81st minute as Malta was on its way to record its first match in 11 against the Swedes without a defeat.

The goal came when a cross by Marcus Berg was deflected into the Maltese goal by Azzopardi.

It was otherwise a positive display by Malta, especially on the counter attacks.

The best chance for Malta came shortly before the Swedish goal, when Mifsud broke clear before the Swedish goalkeeper but shot just over the bar.

Sweden were not dangerous in the first half but raised the tempo in the second. Within minutes of the second half, Ibrahimovic passed to Kim Kallstrom who fired a shot which was deflected off the post. Maltese goalkeeper Hogg then saved an overhead strike by Johann Elmanader.

Malta also came close when, on the hour, Mifsud set off on a run, pulled the ball back for Cohen who served Alex Muscat inside the Sweden box, but the latter mishit his shot.

Sweden threatened again in the closing minutes when Ibrahimovic crossed from the left to Rasmus Elm whose shot smacked against the crossbar.

Sweden have 15 points from eight matches. Malta are still rooted to the bottom of the table with only one point from nine.

It was overall a very positive display by Malta in what was its first competitive game under new coach John Buttigieg.