The Malta Independent 14 July 2026, Tuesday
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TALKING POINTS: The finalissima will decide the new Maltese football Champions

Tuesday, 12 May 2026, 11:49 Last update: about 3 months ago

YoHealth Malta Premier - TMI’s reflections and analysis. Words by Simon Farrugia

The stage is set for a thrilling finalissima between Floriana FC and Marsaxlokk FC as two of the Malta Premier's most consistent sides go head-to-head in a decisive clash that promises tension, drama and high-quality football.

Floriana arrive full of confidence after an impressive run that saw them lift the Closing Round title and continue building momentum at the perfect time of the season. The Greens have shown resilience, tactical discipline and an ability to grind out results even under pressure. Their recent derby triumph,  even though after a penalty shoot out, added even more belief within the squad and among the supporters.

Marsaxlokk, however, have proven throughout the campaign that they are more than capable of matching any side in the league. Known for their attacking threat and organised structure, the Southseasiders have consistently demonstrated why they deserve a place in this showdown. Their balance between defensive solidity and quick transitions has made them one of the toughest teams to break down.

This encounter is expected to be decided by fine margins. Floriana may hold a slight psychological edge thanks to recent form and experience in high-pressure matches, but Marsaxlokk possess the hunger and determination to make history themselves. Midfield battles, set pieces and moments of individual brilliance could ultimately shape the outcome.

Supporters from both camps are expected to create a spectacular atmosphere, with emotions running high from the opening whistle. Finals often produce unforgettable moments, and this match has all the ingredients to become another memorable chapter in Maltese football.

Beyond the trophy itself, the finalissima represents the culmination of months of hard work, sacrifice and consistency. Both clubs have earned their place on the biggest domestic stage, and now only one can emerge victorious.

Whether it is Floriana's experience and momentum or Marsaxlokk's ambition and fighting spirit, Maltese football fans can expect a contest worthy of a championship decider.

Will it be Floriana for the 27th time or Marsaxlokk for the 2nd time?

 

'We kept on believing' Owen Spiteri, Floriana FC

'We have been working all throughout the season to achieve our main goal. We are now ninety minutes away from glory' These were the first comments passed by the Most Valuable Player of the Match Floriana - Valletta Owen Spiteri. He added. ' It was a very tight match but we kept believing that we could make it. When it came down to penalties we also believed that we will win the match. Now we have Marsaxlokk who are a very good side but we will prepare well so that we can reach our objectives.'

 

'So proud of my players' Vincenzo Potenza, coach M'Xlokk FC

'This is an incredible moment for all of us'.  A visibly emotional Marsaxlokk coach Vincenzo Potenza stressed about the moment that they were passing through.He continued. ' I am very proud of my players   looking  back from where we started, We are now in the final facing Floriana who have been the most consistent team during the season. But we will prepare for this match and hope for the best result.'

 

CURIOSITIES

• Mosta once again saved their status in the Malta Premier League.  Apart from Floriana, Hibernians u Birkirkara, Mosta is the most club that has been in the top flight for consecutive seasons - 15.

• Valletta lost their Brazilian goaler four minutes before the end of extra time. Till that time he was the only player from all that participated in the Premier League that played all minutes.

• Another first last weekend regarded M'Xlokk player Minala. He became the first player in the MPL to score a brace from the spot in the same match.

• For Zabbar SP it is the first time in their history that they will make three  consecutive seasons in the Maltese Top Division

 

TOP SIX FINAL TABLE

Floriana                      37
Marsaxlokk                 31
Ħamrun S.                  28
Valletta                       24
Gżira Utd.                   21
Naxxar L.                    20

 

BOTTOM SIX FINAL TABLE

Sliema W.                   22
Birkirkara                   19
Hibernians                  16
Zabbar SP                  15
Tarxien R.                  15
Mosta                        10

 

RESULTS  

Floriana - Valletta                 0-0 / 3-1 (pen)
Ħamrun S. - M'Xlokk            1-2
Tarxien R. - Zabbar SP   0-2
Naxxar L. - Mosta   0-1

*Tarxien R. & Naxxar L relegated

 

NEXT MATCHES

Friday 15th May at National Stadium

3rd place  decider

7pm         Valletta - Ħamrun S.

 

Saturday 16th May at National Stadium

Finalissima

4    Floriana - Marsaxlokk  

 

CLEAN SHEETS

Ħamrun S.        18
Birkirkara         15
Floriana           15
Valletta           13
Gżira Utd.       11
Marsaxlokk      9
Sliema W.         8
Żabbar SP        8
Mosta               6
Naxxar L.        5
Hibernians      5
Tarxien R.       2 

 

TOP SCORERS

J. Mbong (Hamrun S.)                       14

Y. Messias (Valletta)                          12

P. Emanuel (Mosta)                           12

L. Villela (Hibernians)                        11

J. Grech (Floriana)                            11

P. Santiago Cejas (Zabbar SP)            10

M. Fontanella (Zabbar SP)                 10

M. Maia (Gzira Utd.)                           9

Ailton Soares (M'Xlokk)                      9

C. Padilha Mendonca (Hibernians)       8

A. Penha da Costa (Gżira Utd.)           8

Miullen (Hibernians)                          8

M. Jah (Floriana)                               8

Vitinho (Naxxar L.)                            8

F. Varela (Floriana)                            7

 

 

 

 


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