Success for MFA Academy squad in Barcelona

The Malta FA Academy squad (Under-13) left a very positive impression at the Academies World Cup of Football as one of the two Maltese teams topped their category after beating an international selection 3-2 in the final in Barcelona on Saturday.

Banking on a group of 20 players, Malta FA Academy coaches Paul Gatt and Charlie Scerri fielded two teams – Reds and Whites – in this annual international tournament, played on a seven-a-side basis and run by the renowned Marcet Football Academy.

The two Maltese sides, made up of players born in 2005, advanced to the semi-finals after the Whites finished first in their group while the Reds claimed second spot in their section.

One of the two semi-finals was an all-Maltese affair with the MFA Academy U13 Red Team prevailing 1-0 to secure berth in the final.

The decisive game against an international selection was a tight affair with the Maltese boys emerging on top by the odd goal in five – 3-2.

The MFA Academy U13 White Team had to settle for fourth place after losing to an Italian selection 5-4 on penalties following a 3-3 draw in the third place match.

Robert Gatt, the Malta FA Technical Director who is leading the contingent in Barcelona, expressed his satisfaction at the performances of the Maltese teams in this prestigious tournament.

“Well done to all our boys for their excellent attitude and effort throughout this tournament,” Gatt told www.mfa.com.mt.

“Our teams played 12 matches in sweltering conditions over the past three days. They faced some their high-level players from several countries and their performances were very encouraging.

“We are grateful to the Marcet Football Academy for their organisation and hospitality.” Under-13 squad: Bradlee Abela; Samuel Agius; Ensell Attard; Zak Barbara; Timothy Cachia; Luca Camilleri; Lucas Caruana; Russell Caruana; Isaiah Chukunyere; Ivin Farrugia; Kaiden Fenech; Raul Formosa; Yan Galea; Jake Huber; Kian Leonardi; Myron Micallef; Nicholas Mifsud; Jayden Ekenna Ohaka; Matthias Said; Sven Xerri. Technical staff: Technical Director: Robert Gatt Team Manager: Edwin Camilleri

Coaches: Scerri Doctor: Daniel McKean Physio: Raphael Ellul Falzon Kit Manager: Paul Schembri Paul Gatt, Charlie