Nations League: San Marino going for promotion after shock win

Underdogs stun Malta 1-0 to stay top of Group D4

Minnows San Marino have taken a giant step towards promotion to League C of the Nations League after stunning Malta 1-0 in a shock result.

The tiny country, with a population of just 33,000, had never won a competitive match in their history before 2022.

But they have now won two of their four matches in the Nations League, including a famous victory over Malta, who are ranked 47 places above them in the FIFA world rankings.

San Marino's victory was all the more remarkable given that they were without their star player, Mirko Palazzi, who was suspended.

The match was played in front of a sell-out crowd at the Stadio Olimpico in Serravalle, and the home fans were treated to a historic night.

The only goal of the game came in the 32nd minute, when Adolfo Hirsch headed home from a corner.

Malta pressed for an equaliser in the second half, but the San Marino defence held firm.

The victory means that San Marino are now top of Group D4, with seven points from four matches.

They are two points ahead of Estonia and three points ahead of Malta, with one match remaining.

If San Marino avoid defeat in their final match against Estonia on Tuesday, they will be promoted to League C.

It would be a remarkable achievement for a country with such a small population.

San Marino's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of their players and coaching staff.