Impressive Israel comeback falls short in rugby loss to Malta

Israel’s national rugby team played its first match of 2026 in the Rugby Europe Conference, suffering a 50–25 away loss to Malta. Despite the result, the blue-and-white side produced a rare 19-point unanswered scoring blitz that briefly echoed last year’s memorable victory over the same opponent.

The Tony Bezzina Stadium has become a familiar battleground for Israel in recent years. Just a year ago, the team recorded one of its greatest-ever wins there, a dramatic 16–15 triumph over Malta, sealed by Maayan Levinson’s last-second penalty kick. That victory, against a side ranked 23 places above Israel, was seen as a major milestone for Israeli rugby.

On Saturday, at the very same venue, Israel attempted to recreate that magic and once again showed character, determination and belief in the Men’s Conference of Rugby Europe. Facing a favored Malta side and challenging away conditions, Israel ultimately fell 50–25, but delivered an impressive attacking display in the second half. Despite the scoreline, the performance, and especially the comeback, highlighted that the spirit from that previous encounter remains very much alive.

The match opened with sustained pressure from the hosts, backed by a strong home crowd. Israel initially struggled against Malta’s physical running game and trailed 22–6 at halftime. Still, the Israeli side remained composed, with fly-half Jack Shear (No. 10) managing play and keeping his team within reach through penalty kicks.

The real drama unfolded after the break. With Malta extending its lead to 36–6 and the match seemingly decided, Israel produced one of its most impressive responses in recent years. In a short span, the visitors launched an attacking surge, scoring 19 unanswered points.

Momentum shifted toward Israel, pressure mounted in the stands, and suddenly the scoreboard read 36–25. It was a display of resilience and teamwork. However, Malta regained control in the closing stages, restoring the gap and sealing a 50–25 victory.

Despite the defeat, Israel takes plenty of positives. Scoring three tries away from home against a higher-ranked opponent, and refusing to collapse even when trailing by 30 points, reflects significant character.

The team showed it has the tools to compete on the European stage, and the message from this match is clear: Israel’s national rugby team never gives up.

Match Statistics:

Malta: 7 tries, 6 conversions, 1 penalty
Israel: 3 tries (Levy, Oleynik, Avrahami), 2 conversions, 2 penalties