Floriana FC confirmed their dominance of the domestic season by clinching the Closing Round title in emphatic fashion, capping off a campaign defined by consistency, resilience, and attacking flair.
Heading into the game against arch-rivals Valletta FC, Floriana knew that even a draw would be enough to secure top spot. However, in keeping with their performances throughout the round, they approached the match with ambition rather than caution. From the opening whistle, Floriana imposed themselves on the game, controlling possession and dictating the tempo against a Valletta side equally eager to disrupt their celebrations.
Their defensive organization, which has been a hallmark of their campaign, ensured that Valletta found it difficult to create clear-cut chances. Whenever called upon, Floriana's backline remained composed, while their midfield continued to transition play effectively from defence to attack.
This victory not only sealed the Closing Round title but also extended Floriana's impressive unbeaten run, underlining their status as the most consistent team in the league during this phase. Week after week, they demonstrated the ability to grind out results, whether through narrow wins or disciplined performances in tougher fixtures.
A key factor behind their success has been squad depth and tactical flexibility. The coaching staff managed to rotate players without losing momentum, keeping the team fresh and competitive across all matches. Additionally, the blend of experienced figures and emerging talent provided balance, with leaders stepping up in crucial moments and younger players injecting energy and creativity.
Supporters of Floriana have played their part as well, creating a vibrant atmosphere that has undoubtedly fueled the team's performances. Their unwavering backing throughout the Closing Round has been instrumental, especially in high-pressure encounters such as the clash with Valletta.
Floriana, rightly so celebrated incidentally on the Feast of their Patron Saint. But now attention will inevitably turn to what lies ahead. Winning the Closing Round is a significant achievement, but Floriana will now aim to carry this momentum into the finalissima or the Final Four.
For now, however, Floriana can reflect on a job exceptionally well done-Closing Round champions, and deservedly so. But there is still more work to be done.
'Still work to be done but it's a beautiful feeling'
- Johann Said, President Floriana FC
'We haven't achieved everything with this victory yet, but it is a beautiful feeling. To win the Closing Round, win a derby, and do all this during our feast of Saint Publius."
These were the comments of Floriana President Johann Said at the end of the match against Valletta. Said also thanked the supporters. 'A special thanks to the supporters who turned up in great numbers this afternoon. This is a gift from us to them, so they have even more to celebrate during this weekend'
'We have been consistent all throughout'
- Daniel Portela, coach Floriana FC
After the match, coach Daniel Portela expressed his happiness while maintaining a balanced and reflective tone. He said: "I cannot but be happy today after this result where we achieved our objective with two matches still to go." This statement shows how focused the team had been on a clear target throughout the season and how consistent weekly work has led to a concrete and historic achievement.
Portela also emphasized the importance of the supporters in the team's journey. "My greatest satisfaction is seeing the joy of these supporters. They are people who truly love the club," he said.
The coach also reflected on the season as a whole, noting that the team has been consistent and competitive from the very beginning. He pointed out that since June there has been intensive work and serious planning, and he even stated that in the first round the team also deserved more than what it obtained, as in his view it was one of the best in the league.
Despite this, Portela insisted that football brings different realities and that results are what ultimately matter. Therefore, the focus must remain on consistency and a positive mentality in order for the team to continue building on this success.
He concluded with a message of optimism, stating that the team must look forward with confidence and determination.
CURIOSITIES
v Roko Prsa is the only outfield player who has started in all 30MDs so far this season. The other one is the Valletta goalkeeper Adilson Aguero dos Santos.
v Tarxien and Mosta are the only two teams in the Bottom Six who have have not changed their coaches. Both Jacques Scerri and Joe Grech though passing through a difficult season have managed to weather the storm.
v For Floriana last Saturday's win against Valletta was their 15th consecutive unbeaten match.To find a run better than this for the Greens this dates back 30 years - last 11 matches of season 95/96 and the first 7 matches in season 96/97 - a run of 18 consecutive matches
TOP SIX TABLE
Floriana 34
Ħamrun S. 25
Marsaxlokk 25
Valletta 21
Gżira Utd. 20
Naxxar L. 19
BOTTOM SIX TABLE
Sliema W. 21
Birkirkara 17
Hibernians 13
Zabbar SP 11
Tarxien R. 11
Mosta 9
RESULTS - MD 30
Hibernians - Birkirkara 0-0
Floriana - Valletta 2-0
Tarxien R. - Zabbar SP 3-3
M'Xlokk - Gzira Utd. 2-1
Mosta - Sliema W. 2-2
Ħamrun S. - Naxxar L. 3-0
NEXT MATCHES - MD 31
Friday 24th April
Tony Bezzina Stadium
6.00pm Tarxien R. - Birkirkara
8.30pm Hibernians - Mosta
Saturday 25th April
National Stadium
4.00pm Floriana - Hamrun
Sunday 26th April
National Stadium
4pm M'Xlokk - Valletta
Tony Bezzina Stadium
3.00pm Zabbar SP - Sliema W.
5.30pm Gżira Utd. - Naxxar L.
CLEAN SHEETS
Ħamrun S. 18
Birkirkara 14
Floriana 13
Valletta 12
Gżira Utd. 10
Marsaxlokk 8
Sliema W. 8
Żabbar SP 6
Mosta 5
Naxxar L. 4
Hibernians 4
Tarxien R. 1
TOP SCORERS
Y. Messias (Valletta) 12
J. Mbong (Hamrun S.) 12
P. Emanuel (Mosta) 12
L. Villela (Hibernians) 11
J. Grech (Floriana) 11
P. Santiago Cejas (Zabbar SP) 9
M. Maia (Gzira Utd.) 9
Ailton Soares (M'Xlokk) 9
C. Padilha Mendonca (Hibernians) 8
A. Penha da Costa (Gżira Utd.) 8
M. Jah (Floriana) 7
Vitinho (Naxxar L.) 7
F. Varela (Floriana) 7
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