An early breakthrough and a stoppage-time strike sealed another impressive win for Floriana, as they defeated Birkirkara 2–0 to record their fifth consecutive victory in the YoHealth Malta Premier Opening Round.
With this result, the Greens not only regained top spot in the standings but also secured qualification to the Top 6 phase of the competition.
Birkirkara, meanwhile, remain joint-sixth with Marsaxlokk, though the Southseasiders have a game in hand. With just two matchdays remaining, the Stripes face mounting pressure to claim maximum points from their final fixtures against Tarxien Rainbows and Ħamrun Spartans if they hope to reach the upper section.
New signings fail to make impact
Birkirkara coach Giovanni Tedesco handed a debut to new signing Asumah Abubakar-Ankrah, who joined Pablo Gaitán and Nathan Cross in the starting lineup. The trio replaced Neil Micallef, Geoffrey Acheampong, and the suspended Leandro Lacunza.
Floriana made just one change from their previous outing, with Jake Grech returning to the first XI and Mattia Veselji starting on the bench.
The Greens made a dream start, opening the scoring after just four minutes. A short corner from Jake Grech was played to Federico Varela, whose deflected cross fell perfectly for Mustapha Jah to head home from close range.
Birkirkara thought they had equalised on 33 minutes when Donovan Makoma found the net, but the goal was ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper. Minutes later, Pablo Gaitán released Manuel Morello, who struck the base of the post, with the rebound deflecting off the Floriana keeper and out for a corner.
Floriana came close again through Macula, whose low drive was saved by Guilherme Cioletti, while Abubakar tested the Greens’ goalkeeper just before the interval.
The second half offered few clear chances, though Cioletti denied Maydana from close range nine minutes from time.
In stoppage time, Floriana wrapped up the points. Jake Grech surged down the left and squared the ball for Mattia Veselji, who calmly slotted past goalkeeper Martinez to make it 2–0 and confirm another commanding victory for the title-chasing Greens.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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