Ħamrun Spartans Edge RFS to Move Closer to Historic UEFA Qualification
UEFA Conference League 2025/26 – Play-Off Round (First Leg)
Ħamrun Spartans 1–0 RFS
National Stadium, Ta’ Qali
Goal: 56′ Saliou Thioune
Ħamrun Spartans took a significant step toward securing a historic place in the League Phase of the UEFA Conference League with a 1-0 victory over Latvian champions RFS in the first leg of the play-off round.
A Professional and Determined Performance
Despite playing under challenging conditions due to the widely criticised pitch quality at the National Stadium, the Spartans displayed resilience and tactical maturity. Head coach Giacomo Modica’s side remained compact and focused throughout, successfully adapting to RFS’s physical and aerial threats.
The decisive moment came early in the second half. Eder pressed high to recover possession and quickly fed Joseph Mbong on the right. The Malta international delivered a precise cross that found Saliou Thioune, who converted clinically to put the Spartans ahead.
Following the goal, Ħamrun remained composed and controlled, limiting RFS’s opportunities and managing the remainder of the match with confidence and structure.
Modica: “A Step Forward in Our Journey”
Head coach Giacomo Modica praised his players for their character and tactical execution in difficult circumstances.
“They showed a lot of grit, character and determination. This was not an easy match, especially considering the state of the pitch. But we found a breakthrough and managed the result professionally. It’s a little step forward in our journey.”
Modica acknowledged that his squad is still building physically, especially when compared to opponents already in the final stretch of their domestic season. Nonetheless, he expressed satisfaction with the overall discipline and application on the night.
President Portelli: “The Dream Is Alive”
Club president Joseph Portelli was visibly pleased with the performance and result, stating:
“This was a big result in difficult conditions. Our dream was always to take this club to the League Phase of a European competition, and now we are closer than ever. The team showed great maturity and heart.”
Portelli also took the opportunity to thank the Spartans’ supporters, who turned out in large numbers and made their presence felt.
Second Leg Awaits
The return leg is scheduled to take place in Riga next Thursday. While Ħamrun hold a narrow lead, the task remains formidable. RFS will look to bounce back on home soil, where they are expected to benefit from familiar playing conditions and strong home support.
However, the Spartans carry momentum, confidence, and belief — the ingredients required to complete what would be a historic achievement for the club and Maltese football.
Match Line-Up – Ħamrun Spartans
Bonello, Compri, Bjelicic, Polito (Xerri 69’), Camenzuli, Simkus, Eder (El Fanis 74’), Ćorić (Garcia 69’), Mbong (Marcelina 90’), Thioune (Hadzi 90’), Koffi.
Match Line-Up – FC RFS
Maric, Savjnieks, Filipovic, Lipuscek, Zelenkovs, Panic, Rakic (Kigurs 77’), Diedhiou (Mares 46’), Wouter (Diomande 57’), Talla, Lemajic.
Referee: Ashot Ghaltakhchyan (Armenia)
Yellow Cards: Thioune, Eder, Garcia, Lipuscek, Diomande, Camenzuli, Mares
References: TVM Sport & SportsDesk
