[IN PICTURES] Italy claims victory over Malta as thousands flock to Ta' Qali national stadium

National team concedes 0-2 to the reigning Euro champions in front of 16,000 crowd at Ta' Qali

Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday

Reigning European football champions Italy claimed victory over Malta with a 0-2 win at Ta' Qali stadium, with the two goals scored within the first half hour of the game.

Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday

Mateo Retegui and Matteo Pessino scored goals for Italy at the 14th and 27th minute respectively, securing the team's first win of the Group C Euro qualifiers after a 2-1 loss to England.

Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday

The Maltese team was visibly weaker, despite a goal opportunity from Alex Satariano after five minutes of play. 

Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday

Maltese football fans in the South End Core led all the chants and fanfare, supporting the national team with classic football anthems.

Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday
Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday