Luxol St Andrews have qualified for the Last 16 of the UEFA Futsal Champions League, achieving a historic milestone for Maltese futsal despite a 6–1 loss to Group 3 winners Benfica on Saturday at the University Sports Complex.
Under UEFA’s group-stage format, three of the four teams in each group advance to the knockout phase. Luxol’s qualification was confirmed after Loznica-Grad of Serbia fell 2–0 to Riga FC earlier in the day, meaning the Maltese champions only needed to avoid losing by more than eight goals against the Portuguese giants.
Although Benfica — one of Europe’s most decorated futsal clubs — proved too strong, Luxol met their objective, finishing third in the group with a goal difference of -8, ahead of Loznica-Grad’s -11.
Luxol had endured a challenging week, collecting just one point from their first two fixtures — a 4–1 defeat to Riga and a dramatic 4–4 draw with Loznica-Grad. But their persistence and discipline ensured progression to the knockout rounds for yet another season.
In a statement, Futsal Malta praised the team’s achievement, describing it as a testament to the club’s commitment and growth.
“Local champions Luxol St Andrews Futsal Club have managed to qualify for the Last 16 Phase of the UEFA Futsal Champions League,” the association said.
“This qualification is another important step, marking the definition of resilience, hard work, and sacrifice made locally to continue elevating the game. Well done to all committee members, coaches, staff, and players of Luxol St Andrews Malta for this achievement.”
Luxol’s qualification continues their impressive record on the continental stage, once again flying the Maltese flag proudly among Europe’s elite futsal clubs.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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