Malta were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Estonia in a friendly match played yesterday in Tallinn.

Despite taking an early lead after only nine minutes, thanks to an Ian Azzopardi goal, Malta allowed Estonia to hit back and level matters midway through the first half, courtesy of Ats Purje.

Andreas Oper scored Estonia’s winner seven minutes into the second half. Michael Mifsud squandered a good chance on 75 minutes, hitting the post from the penalty spot.

This match was part of Malta’s preparations for the forthcoming two World Cup qualifiers as the national team is undergoing a one-week training camp in the Estonian capital.

Malta’s starting line-up yesterday was the following:Justin Haber, Kenneth Scicluna, Ian Azzopardi, Luke Dimech, Josef Mifsud, Kevin Sammut, Gilbert Agius, Jamie Pace, Roderick Briffa; Michael Mifsud and Etienne Barbara.

Mario Muscat, Brian Said, Ivan Woods, Andre` Schembri, Cleaven Frendo, Roderick Bajada and Steve Wellman were Malta’s substitutes.

Malta will play Portugal at Ta’Qali on 6 September and then against Albania in Tirana four days later.