Floriana Advance In Wales As Birkirkara Crash Out In Moldova

It was a night of contrasting emotions for Maltese football clubs in European action last Thursday.

Floriana produced a spirited comeback in Wales to book their place in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League, while Birkirkara were eliminated following a heavy defeat in Moldova.

After conceding two quick goals in the opening minutes, Floriana showed immense character and resilience away from home.

They overcame the two-goal deficit against Haverfordwest County AFC with a thrilling 3-2 win, securing a 5-3 aggregate victory. The result means Floriana become the second Maltese side this week, after Ħamrun Spartans, to progress to the next stage of European competition.

Meanwhile, Birkirkara’s hopes of continuing their European journey came to an end in disappointing fashion. Despite a promising 1-0 win in the first leg in Malta, the Stripes failed to hold on to their lead in Moldova.

They were outplayed by FC Petrocub Hîncești and suffered a 3-0 defeat on the night, losing 3-1 on aggregate and crashing out of the competition.

With Floriana now joining Ħamrun Spartans and Hibernians , who were handed a bye in the first round, Malta will have three clubs representing the country in the second round of European qualifiers, with two in the Conference League and Ħamrun still in the Champions League.

#MaltaDaily