Birkirkara will be facing Slovenia’s NK Maribor this afternoon in the second leg of their tie. The first leg last Sunday at the Hibs Ground, had ended in a 3-0 win for the Slovenians, who are therefore almost ascertained of a place in the next round.

The Stripes arrived in Slovenia on Thursday and are accommodated in a hotel in Zrece, about 40km from Maribor.

They had a training session on Thursday evening and had to practice again yesterday at 5pm, the time of kick-off of today’s match.

Coach John Buttigieg will again be making use of the squad which was called for duty in the first match, expressing confidence in the youngsters, most of whom returning to the club after having been on loan with other clubs the past season.

Both clubs have agreed to hold a minute of silence before kick-off in memory of those killed in the St Helen’s fireworks factory tragedy.

The Stripes will wear black arm bands in respect. NK Maribor also expressed their deepest sympathy for the sad loss of lives.