Malta’s Under-16 men’s water polo team has made history by finishing 11th in the world at the World Aquatics Men’s U16 Water Polo Championships 2026 in Zagreb, Croatia.Competing against 36 nations, the young Maltese side secured five victories during the seven-day tournament, defeating China, Mexico, South Africa, New Zealand and Turkey.Their only defeats came against Croatia, who have reached the final, and Hungary, two of the tournament’s strongest teams.The result marks Malta’s best-ever finish at this level, with four players also earning Player of the Match honours throughout the competition:Luigi Gatt (twice)Luca Schiavone (twice)Jake SimpsonBenji LewisASA President Karl Izzo praised the squad’s achievement, saying:“We are incredibly proud of these boys. To finish 11th in the world out of 36 participating nations and win five games is a miracle given our preparation. They showed heart, discipline and the true spirit of Malta. This is just the beginning.”The team, led by head coach Paul Privitera, assistant coaches David Cutajar and Stephen Rizzo, team manager Silvio Borg and physiotherapist Keith Magro, is due to return to Malta today following its historic campaign.Congratulations to Team Malta!Photo Credit: World Aquatics•