Floriana FC defeated rival Sliema Wanderers 2-0 in the famous “Old Firm” derby of Maltese football at the Centenary Stadium in Ta’ Qali. The victory gives Floriana two wins from their opening two matches of the Malta Premier League season, while Sliema remains winless.
First Half: Vella Strikes First
The match opened with energetic exchanges from both sides. Floriana created an early chance in the 12th minute when Paul Mbong’s effort was blocked by goalkeeper Henry Bonello, and Vlatko Drobarov cleared Tomas Gudelj’s follow-up off the line. Sliema responded with pressure of their own and appeared to take the lead in the 35th minute, but Alexander Satariano’s goal was ruled out for a foul inside the penalty area.
Just two minutes later, Floriana capitalized. Yassine Jbira set up Dunstan Vella on the edge of the box, and Vella buried a low shot past Bonello to give the Greens a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Second Half: Penalty Drama and Sealing the Victory
Sliema pushed forward early in the second half to find an equalizer, with Teddy Teuma firing a curling effort wide. The turning point occurred mid-way through the half: during a rapid Sliema counter-attack, Myles Beerman handled the ball, which initially drew what looked to be a second yellow card. However, Floriana requested an FVS (Football Video Support) review for an earlier incident in the penalty box. Referee Ezekiel Barbara reviewed the footage, overturned the card against Beerman, and awarded a penalty to Floriana after Diego Camara fouled Carlo Zammit Lonardelli.
Paul Mbong stepped up in the 74th minute and calmly converted the penalty to make it 2-0. Floriana comfortably held onto their lead through the closing minutes to secure three points and maintain a perfect defensive record.
Match Summary
- Result: Floriana FC 2–0 Sliema Wanderers
- Goals: Dunstan Vella (37′), Paul Mbong (74′ pen)
- Venue: Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali
- Competition: Malta Premier League (Group Stage)
