Clubs Challenge MFA Over FA Trophy Semi‑Final Scheduling

The Malta Football Association has confirmed that the Meridianbet FA Trophy semi‑finals will proceed as originally scheduled, despite formal requests from Valletta FC and Gżira United to postpone their respective fixtures. The MFA stated that the competition calendar was published in August 2025 and that fixture changes can only be considered if all participating clubs agree an agreement that was not reached.

Valletta FC expressed disappointment, arguing that five of their players are currently on national team duty and will return only two days before the semi‑final. The club warned that this leaves no meaningful preparation time and places them at a clear competitive disadvantage. Valletta proposed shifting the match by two days, but the request was rejected by both Birkirkara FC and the MFA.

Gżira United also voiced strong concerns, noting that six of their players are away with the senior and U21 national teams for three full weeks. They stressed that players returning from long travel cannot train immediately, leaving the squad with only one effective training session before a decisive match.

Both clubs appealed for fairness and called on the MFA to reconsider, arguing that national team commitments should not penalise clubs investing in Maltese talent.

#MaltaDaily