Mifsud treasures century of international caps

Thirteen years after his international debut at the same ground, Michael Mifsud won his 100th Malta cap at the Ta' Qali National Stadium on Friday evening.

Striker Mifsud captained his country against the Czech Republic in FIFA World Cup qualifying Group B. It marked the latest landmark in an illustrious national-team career that started against Albania in February 2000. "I am very honoured to have reached this milestone of 100 appearances for my country – something I will treasure for the rest of my life," Mifsud told UEFA.com.

The all-time leading scorer for Malta, Mifsud has also enjoyed success at club level, including spells in England with Coventry City FC and Barnsley FC. Though he subsequently returned to his homeland, the 32-year-old now plies his trade with Melbourne Heart FC in Australia.

"I am very happy with my decision to join Melbourne Heart," he said after moving Down Under last month. "I have joined a very ambitious club with some great players. I must say I was greeted by my new team-mates as if I had been playing for the club for ages.  I am looking forward to my first match with my new club."

Ahead of the Czech contest, Mifsud received a commemorative cap and medal from UEFA to celebrate his century. Next up for the forward is appearance No101, Tuesday's trip to Denmark.