Malta’s national waterpolo team is entering the final stretch of its European Championship preparations with confidence, following an impressive clean sweep against Portugal. As the countdown to Belgrade begins, head coach Milan Cirovic faces key selection decisions that will shape Malta’s challenge against some of Europe’s strongest sides.

The Maltese Waterpolo National Team has concluded an encouraging phase of its preparations ahead of the European Championship Finals, following a clean sweep of victories in a three-match friendly series against Portugal. Malta dominated all three encounters, building confidence and momentum at a crucial stage of the build-up.

With preparations intensifying, the national squad will now enter the final phase of its on-water training with a three-day training camp in Slovenia, scheduled to begin on 5 January. This camp will provide the team with its final opportunity to fine-tune tactics and cohesion before travelling to Belgrade on 8 January for the European Finals.

Malta has been drawn in a demanding group and will face stiff competition against France, Montenegro, and Hungary.

Head coach Milan Cirovic named a provisional list of 23 players on 21 November, with the final squad expected to be confirmed by the end of this week.

One of the most notable developments is the anticipated inclusion of Ivan Nagaev, whose addition is expected to provide a significant boost to the team. His presence underlines Malta’s ambition not only to remain competitive but also to challenge for a historic 12th-place finish.

In goal, San Ġiljan’s Jake Tanti is widely regarded as a guaranteed selection. He is expected to be joined by Sirens goalkeeper Nicky Grixti, who is set to return to the national set-up after a two-year absence.

Another key player likely to feature is Jake Muscat Melito. Although still registered with Neptunes, he did not take part in the local summer league and is currently continuing his season in Italy with Telimar Palermo.

Sliema are expected to be represented by Liam Galea, Benji Cachia, and Jayden Cutajar, with Elijah Schembri likely to be added should Cirovic opt to include an extra defender.

San Ġiljan is set to provide the largest contingent, with up to seven players expected to be named. The anticipated call-ups include Matthew Zammit, Jake Bonavia, Darren Zammit, Nikolai Zammit, Ben Plumpton, Alec Fenech, and goalkeeper Jake Tanti.

Neptunes stalwart Stevie Camilleri will lead the Maltese side as captain.

Malta will open its European Finals campaign on Saturday, 10 January, when it takes on Montenegro. The match is scheduled to start at 18:00 local time.

Photo: Domenic Aquilina