Ghajnsielem FC delivered a commanding performance to retain their place in the GFA First Division, defeating Second Division hopefuls Sannat Lions FC 4-1 in the crucial promotion/relegation play-off held at the Gozo Stadium on Sunday, April 19, 2025.
The Black Knights wasted no time asserting their dominance. Just two minutes in, they were awarded a penalty, confidently converted by Brazilian striker Marcus Vinicius Claudino Ramos (Choco) to open the scoring.
In the 12th minute, Naim Ibrahim Belhadj doubled their lead with a well-taken goal, setting the tone for what would be a difficult afternoon for Sannat.
Despite the setback, Sannat Lions clawed one back through Aud-Gustine James Obaje in the 19th minute, giving them a glimmer of hope. However, their task became significantly harder when Tristan Grech was shown a straight red card in the 37th minute, reducing the Lions to ten men.
Ghajnsielem took full advantage in the second half. Esneider Antonio Daza Carranza made it 3-1 in the 54th minute with a composed strike, before Kaio Lucas Nunes Santos capped off the scoring in the 70th minute, sealing the result and Ghajnsielem’s First Division survival.
With this result, Ghajnsielem FC will continue to compete in the GFA First Division next season, while Sannat Lions FC will remain in the Second Division, having fallen short in their bid for promotion.
GFA Gozo Football League Play-Off – Sunday, 19 April 2025 – Gozo Stadium
Ghajnsielem FC 4–1 Sannat Lions FC
Referee: Daniel Portelli
