Floriana vs Hibernians (Saturday)
Floriana enter the weekend second in the Closing Round standings with 18 points, having already secured a Top Six playoff berth. Hibernians, tied on 16 points with two other teams and sitting third on goal difference, are still in pursuit of mathematical confirmation of their top-six status. As such, this fixture holds significant implications for the Paolites.
Floriana have enjoyed a consistent run of form, winning convincingly against Gżira United 3-0 in early March and suffering just one loss in their past nine league outings. That defeat came most recently, a 2-0 loss to current leaders Birkirkara on March 12. Head coach Darren Abdilla will likely expect a swift response from his players.
Hibernians’ form has fluctuated. After a heavy 4-0 defeat to Żabbar St. Patrick, they bounced back with a 2-0 win over Mosta, followed by a 3-2 victory against Naxxar Lions and a goalless draw with Balzan. Head coach Branko Nišević will be aiming for greater consistency as the team pushes for a playoff spot.
Offensively, Floriana will look to striker Franklin Sasere, whose 11 goals place him among the league’s top scorers. For Hibernians, winger Lucas Villela has hit form recently, and striker Jurgen Degabriele continues to be a key attacking threat.
Sliema Wanderers vs Birkirkara (Sunday)
(Photo Credit: Joseph Galea)
Sunday’s matchup between Sliema Wanderers and Birkirkara could prove pivotal. Sliema, currently sixth with 15 points, sit just one point above Żabbar and Ħamrun, making this a must-win encounter. Birkirkara, leading the table with 19 points and a +11 goal difference, have already clinched their playoff spot and aim to solidify their position at the summit.
(Photo Credit: Catriel Farrugia Sghendo)
Birkirkara approach the fixture in strong form. Unbeaten in their last four league games, the Stripes have secured three successive wins. Their recent results include a 1-1 draw with Melita and a 2-1 win over Hibernians. Brazilian forward Maxuell Maia has been instrumental, registering 20 goals this season.
Sliema, however, are also enjoying momentum. Recent wins over Balzan (3-2) and Ħamrun (1-0) have revived their top-six hopes. Slovenian striker Vito Plut, who has scored 12 goals, leads the line effectively. This fixture may hinge on Sliema’s ability to contain Birkirkara’s attacking threats while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities. The previous meeting between the sides ended in a 1-1 draw, underscoring how tightly matched the teams can be.
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Cover Image Photo Credit: Joseph Galea
