Northern Ireland U21s secure comfortable victory over Malta in Euro qualifier

Jack Patterson, Shea Kearney and Bayley McCann scored as Tommy Wright's side dominated at the Centenary Stadium.

By Belfast Herald Sport1 min read

The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge visit the National Stadium Belfast, home of the Irish Football Association. File photograph. Picture: Northern Ireland Office · licence

Northern Ireland Under-21s defeated Malta by two goals to nil in a UEFA Under-21 Championship qualifier held this evening at the Centenary Stadium in Ta'Qali.

Jack Patterson netted twice for the boys in green and white, while Shea Kearney and Bayley McCann each added one goal to secure the win.

The match took place on Saturday 26 September 2026, with Northern Ireland maintaining control throughout the contest.

Malta's Lucas Caruana created an opportunity early in the game but his shot could not trouble goalkeeper Stephen McMullan.

Kaiden Fenech struck from distance for the visitors but his effort was also blocked by the Irish keeper.

Cole Brannigan received a delivery from Josh Briggs which went wide of the target instead of finding the net.

Makenzie Kirk, the team captain, drilled an attempt wide as Northern Ireland continued to apply pressure in the second half.

Tommy Wright expressed optimism about integrating new players into his squad ahead of future fixtures.