Malawi (8) v (1) Timor-Leste

ONE of the last matches to be played in Federation square today was between mixed team Malawi and Timor Leste who are making their debut in the Homeless World Cup this year in Melbourne.

Malawi got the match started by immediately taking control of the ball and firing a powerful shot against Timor's goalkeeper resulting in two goals scored in under thirty seconds.

Timor Leste were quick to get back into attack mode, looking for an equalizer and pushing hard through the barriers put up by the Malawi players. The extraordinary foot work from the players of Malawi proved too advanced for the attempts at defence from Timor.

A penalty was awarded to Timor in the middle of the first half giving them an opportunity to score but unfortunately the shot went wide. The Malawi goalkeeper stepped over his boundary and Timor was awarded yet another shot at goal. Unfortunately Timor did not have their shooting boots on.

Both teams were going for long shots from range making it difficult for both sides to find the net.

Timor's Mario Laurentino Guterres Benevides stood out as a star player in providing a strong defence against Malawi but his efforts proved not enough.

During the first half both sides were showing great skills in attack and defence but Malawi's skills and determination were just a bit stronger than Timor.

Malawi kicked off the second half and scored immediately. Malawi eased up in the second half offering Timor numerous opportunities to get ahead but they were unable to pull through.

Timor was awarded another penalty – this one being a success and Amaro da Silva scored the first and only goal for Timor. Their ongoing attacks managed to get them on the board before the end of the game.

The goal gave Timor a boost of confidence that geared them into full attack mode which they were unfortunately unable to uphold.

Close to the end of the second half the Timor goalkeeper put his foot over the line which gave Malawi a penalty shot and another easy goal.

Although Malawi deserved the match they left many opportunities open for Timor that they unfortunately did not follow through with. In the end Malawi won 8-1.

Photos: Photoworx