Malta secured 10th place in the World Aquatics Water Polo World Cup 2026 Division 2 after falling just short in a 14-12 loss to Canada in their final classification match.

The game got off to a difficult start for the Maltese side, with Canada dominating the opening stages. They took firm control by winning the first two sessions 5-1 and 4-1, putting Malta on the back foot early.

After the interval, Malta showed clear improvement. The team came out stronger in the third session, edging it 3-2 with goals from Jake Cachia, Jeremy Abela, and Valletta once again getting on the scoresheet.

The final session brought an exciting fightback from Malta, who pushed hard and won it 7-3. Goals from Benji Cachia, Ivan Nagaev, Jeremy Abela, and Elijah Schembri saw Malta close the gap and threaten a comeback.

However, despite their late surge, Malta couldn’t quite catch up, as Canada held on to claim the win.

Attention now turns to Malta’s women’s team, who will compete in the same tournament from 21st to 26th April.

Well done, boys!