Malta started its commitments with a defeat 0-2 defeat against a strong Serbia side which scored a goal in each half to secure all three points. The match was played at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, Hamrun.

Striker Milan Prso gave the Serbs an early fifth minute lead while Vuyadin Savic doubled the score on 68 minutes.

The young Maltese, coached by Oliver Spiteri, gave a good account of themselves and never stopped trying. They created some good scoring opportunities particularly in the second half which were not converted by Sheldon Grech, Mark Scerri and Chris Mackay.

Malta lined up as follows: Michael Incorvaja, Timothy Fleri Soler, Kane Paul Farrugia, Leighton Grech, Sheldon Grech (Keith Fenech), Owen Bugeja, Nathan Busuttil (Dylon Grima), Mark Scerri (Capt), Chris Mackay, Miguel Ciantar (Melchior Vella), Jonathan Xerri

In the other match, the Italy cruised to an easy 4-0 victory over a gallant Andorra side thanks to a brace from Fernando Martin Forestieri (28', 75'), substitute Alborto Paloschi (66') and a great goal by Ivan Mignano in injury time.