A new chapter in Maltese women’s football is set to unfold this Thursday as Hibernians and Mġarr United face off in the final of the Assikura Women’s Knock-Out at the Centenary Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm.
For Hibernians, this marks a third consecutive appearance in the final. After back-to-back heartbreaks against Swieqi United and Birkirkara, the Paolites are eager to end their silverware drought, with their last cup triumph dating back to the 2015/16 season.
Their path to the final has been impressive. A 3-0 semi-final win over San Ġwann, courtesy of goals from Alexis Espitia, Joelma, and veteran Martina Borg, who will retire after the match, secured their place. Notably, they ousted reigning league champions Swieqi United in a tense quarter-final, prevailing in a dramatic penalty shoot-out, showcasing their resilience under pressure.
Mġarr United, meanwhile, stand on the brink of making history. The Greens are bidding to lift their first-ever major women’s football trophy. Additionally, their form suggests they’re more than capable. They powered past Lija Athletic 8-0 in the semi-finals, with Argentine striker Maria Hernandez bagging a brace. They also eliminated cup holders and record winners Birkirkara with a commanding 3-1 quarter-final victory.
Mġarr enter the final as slight favourites, having edged Hibernians in the Top Four league phase standings — despite the Paolites leading much of the campaign. Crucially, Mġarr remained unbeaten in five head-to-head meetings this season, winning twice (3-0, 3-1) and drawing three times.
Assikura Women’s Knock-Out Roll of Honour
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Birkirkara – 17 titles
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Hibernians – 5 titles
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Rabat Ajax – 3 titles
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Mosta – 1 title
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Swieqi United – 1 title
Sports Editor
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