Jubilee Cup – Last 16
Ħamrun Spartans were the last team to reach the quarter-finals of the Jubilee Cup after a 2-0 win over Floriana at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.
This was Ħamrun’s second victory against Floriana in just 11 days, having also beaten them 3-1 in the league.
The first half was evenly balanced for about 30 minutes until Floriana conceded an unlucky own goal. Defender Lucas Lopez tried to clear a corner, but the ball ended up in his own net.
The second half became more tense, especially when the referee faced a tough call. Ħamrun goalkeeper Henry Bonello fouled Mattia Veselji outside his area, but despite strong protests from the Floriana players and bench, referee Philip Farrugia showed only a yellow card.
Floriana pushed hard for an equaliser, but Ħamrun sealed the win in the 84th minute. A defensive mistake allowed substitute Joseph Mbong to break through on goal, and he calmly finished past goalkeeper Picon to make it 2-0 for the reigning champions.
Ħamrun will now face long-time rivals Valletta in the quarter-finals of the Jubilee Cup. Before that, the two teams will also meet in the first match of Phase Two of the league after the international break.
