Maltese side eye first-leg redemption in Europa League qualifier at Tony Bezzina Stadium
Hamrun Spartans are back under the European lights. And after a bruising Champions League exit, Tuesday night’s clash against Maccabi Tel Aviv gives them a shot at restoring pride and, just maybe, keeping their continental dream alive.
The Maltese champions are home for the first leg of their Europa League third qualifying round, facing a Maccabi Tel Aviv squad that arrives with pedigree, pressure, and playoff ambitions of their own. For Giacomo Modica’s men, it’s more than just a match — it’s a shot at redemption.
A Stuttering Start to the Season, but Hope Still Flickers
Hamrun’s early campaign has been all over the place. The optimism that followed their penalty shootout triumph over Zalgiris in July has been dampened by the sobering double defeat to Dynamo Kiev — 3-0 home and away. No goals scored. Six conceded. A hard landing.
Modica’s first few competitive games haven’t inspired much confidence. His team has lost three out of four, and in every one of those losses, they let in at least two goals. There’s no sugarcoating it — the Spartans look fragile.
But they’re still standing.
They’ve dropped into the Europa League’s Champions Path, which gives them this second bite at the continental cherry. The route is narrow. The stakes, massive.
Maccabi Tel Aviv: Bigger Budget, Bigger Expectations
Unlike Hamrun, Maccabi Tel Aviv didn’t have to take the Champions League detour. They’ve been waiting, prepping, and now it’s time to go.
One of Israel’s most decorated clubs, Maccabi bring a squad that’s deeper, more seasoned, and, frankly, more expensive. They know what these rounds are about. But expectations come with pressure. Anything less than the group stage would be a failure in Tel Aviv.
There’s talent everywhere — in midfield, in defence, on the wings. Whether it’s Dan Biton pulling strings or Eran Zahavi hunting goals, Hamrun’s defence will need to be sharper than it’s been all season.
One slip, and it could be curtains.
Modica Under Pressure to Deliver
The Italian coach wasn’t brought in to settle for domestic glory. European qualification has been the club’s focus for the past four seasons. And the clock is ticking.
He tried to play with a higher line against Kiev. It backfired.
He tried compactness against Balzan domestically. Still lost.
There are murmurs around Tas-Sikkina now — is this squad strong enough? Is this system too open?
But Modica isn’t flinching. At Monday’s presser, he said:
“We are not afraid of names. We play at home, and we play with heart. That’s all.”
Brave words. But the performance on Tuesday will speak louder.
First Leg Will Be Crucial — Especially at Home
It’s not hard to see why Hamrun are targeting this first leg like a final. The return trip to Israel is going to be a tough one.
The Spartans need a result. Not necessarily a win, but something — a clean sheet, a goal, a draw with promise.
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A defeat with goals conceded? Dangerous.
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A goalless draw? Risky, but not fatal.
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A 1-0 win? Gold dust.
The margin for error is razor thin. Here’s a look at both sides’ last five competitive results to add context:
| Match | Hamrun Spartans | Maccabi Tel Aviv |
|---|---|---|
| 01 Aug | Lost 1-2 vs Balzan | Friendly – Won 3-0 vs Netanya |
| 26 Jul | Lost 0-3 vs Dynamo Kiev | Friendly – Drew 1-1 vs Hapoel Tel Aviv |
| 23 Jul | Lost 0-3 vs Dynamo Kiev | Friendly – Won 2-1 vs Ashdod |
| 19 Jul | Won (pens) vs Zalgiris | Friendly – Lost 0-1 vs Be’er Sheva |
| 09 Jul | Lost 0-1 vs Zalgiris | Friendly – Won 2-0 vs Kiryat Shmona |
Statistically speaking, Hamrun’s defence is leaking goals. They’ll need to be tighter, smarter, and most importantly, calmer under pressure.
Who’s In, Who’s Out: Team News
Injuries have been kind, for once.
Hamrun are expected to field their strongest XI, with Elvis Mashike expected to start up front. Defender Emerson Marcelina, who missed the second leg against Kiev, is reportedly back in contention. The midfield duo of Jonny and Camenzuli is likely to anchor the middle.
Maccabi Tel Aviv have a nearly full-strength squad too. Biton and Zahavi are match-fit. Daniel Peretz could start in goal, though reports suggest Maccabi may rotate slightly with the away leg in mind.
Key names to watch:
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Hamrun Spartans: Elvis Mashike, Emerson Marcelina, Jonny
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Maccabi Tel Aviv: Eran Zahavi, Dan Biton, Sheran Yeini
A Long History of Nearlys for Hamrun
You have to feel for Hamrun fans. This is their fourth straight season in UEFA qualifiers. Each time, there’s been promise. Each time, it’s ended in heartbreak.
They reached Europa qualifying in 2022-23. Then tried again via the Champions League and Conference League. Always close. Always out.
They’re not just playing for this year. They’re playing for all those years that ended too soon.
And maybe, just maybe, they’ve got one big night in them.
