ISTANBUL

San Marino ended a 20-year winless streak in competitive matches Thursday, defeating Liechtenstein 1-0 in a UEFA Nations League clash at the Stadio Olimpico di Serravalle.

Nicko Sensoli, an 19-year-old midfielder playing in Italy's Serie D, scored the historic goal in the 53rd minute, securing San Marino's first official victory since a friendly win against the same opponents in 2004.

The triumph marks a significant milestone for the microstate, which ranks last in FIFA's men's rankings and represents the smallest population of any UEFA member.

San Marino's national team, largely composed of amateur players, has long struggled in international competitions. Their previous record included a 13-0 defeat to Germany, which stood as a European Championship record until France's 14-0 victory over Gibraltar in 2023.

The win lifts San Marino off the bottom of their three-team Nations League group which they take part with 198th ranked Gibraltar and 199th ranked Liechtenstein.