Kercem Ajax extend lead as Ghajnsielem edge Xewkija in MD14 thrillers

The title race in the GFA BOV Gozo Football League 1st Division took a significant turn on Sunday, February 22, 2026, as leaders Kercem Ajax capitalized on a high-scoring encounter between their closest rivals at the Gozo Stadium.

League leaders Kercem Ajax moved four points clear at the top of the table with a professional display against Qala Saints. After a tight first half, the Ajax broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute through Lorenzo Atzori.

The momentum stayed with Kercem, and just four minutes later, Andre Gabriel Castro Martins doubled the advantage. Qala’s hopes of a comeback were effectively extinguished in the 62nd minute when Ibrahim Mohammed was shown a straight red card, allowing the leaders to see out the match comfortably.

In the match of the weekend, Ghajnsielem secured a thrilling comeback victory over Xewkija Tigers, a result that blows the race for second place wide open. The Tigers took the lead in the 25th minute through Angel Manuel Bustos, but the Black and Whites leveled shortly after the interval via Jhon Alejandro Gonzalez Castillo (49’).

Xewkija regained the lead in the 55th minute through Marcelo Junior Barbosa, setting up a frantic final half-hour. Ghajnsielem found an equalizer in the 72nd minute through Deison Arvey Cuero, and just four minutes later, Joshua Buttigieg netted the winner to complete the turnaround. The victory moves Ghajnsielem to within a single point of Xewkija in the standings.