Two goals in the first 30 minutes gave Italy their first win in the Euro 2024 qualifying stages on Sunday, with Malta suffering its second defeat in a row.

The Maltese side appeared tired as from the early stages – three days after its 2-1 loss in North Macedonia – and allowed Italy to take control of the game by the half hour.

But it was Malta who had the first chance of the game, when Satariano slipped in between the two Italian central defenders, his shot tipped over the bar by Donnarumma.

Soon afterwards, Italy took the lead, Retegui heading home in the 15th minutes from a Tonali corner to score his second goal in as many games for the Azzurri, after his debut goal in the loss against England last Thursday.

Without setting any houses on fire, Italy continued to dominate the proceedings, and Pessina slotted into the net for Italy’s second goal on 27 minutes.

The game’s rhythm slowed down from then onwards, the Italians happy to retain possession but creating few chances in front of Bonello’s goal, and Malta more careful at the back to avoid more trouble.

The second half was even slower, with Italy having just one important chance when a Scamacca overhead kick was saved by Bonello.

Malta tried to push forward sporadically but Donnarumma saw little action in his penalty box.

Photos: Domenic Aquilina/MFA