Hibernians FC announced their title ambitions with a clinical 2-0 victory over rivals Sliema Wanderers in Sunday night’s opening-round block-buster at the Tony Bezzina Stadium in Paola.
With new head coach Tugberk Tanrivermis handing debuts to nine summer signings, the Paolites weathered an early storm before goals in each half from Boris Druga and Fabian Jankovic secured a well-deserved three points.
⚽ MATCH HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MOMENTS
- 4′ ❌ PENALTY MISS FOR SLIEMA: The Blues started with real intent, and after Anthony Limbombe was brought down in the box by Leandro Lacunza, star signing Teddy Teuma stepped up to the spot—only to blast his penalty way high over the crossbar!
- 28′ ⚽ GOAL! HIBERNIANS (1-0): Hibs made Sliema pay for that early wastefulness. Bjorn Kristensen delivered a precise cross from the right flank to Ryder Matos, who teed up Boris Druga to slot calmly past goalkeeper Henry Bonello.
- 66′ 🪵 POST DENIES SLIEMA: Branko Nisevic’s men surged forward in search of an equalizer in the second half. Substitute Alex Satariano hit a clean drive from the left side, but his shot struck the base of the upright.
- 73′ ⚽ GOAL! HIBERNIANS (2-0): The Paolites doubled their lead and effectively put the tie to bed. Substitute Joy Slayd Mickels whipped in a superb cross from the right wing, finding Fabian Jankovic, who smashed a first-time finish past Bonello.
- 81′ 🧤 CARDINALI HEROICS: Late substitute Wale Musa Alli came close to cutting the deficit for Sliema, but Hibs custodian Matteo Cardinali pulled off a top-drawer save to preserve the clean sheet.
📊 MATCH FACTS
- Score: Hibernians FC 2–0 Sliema Wanderers FC
- Goalscorers: Boris Druga (28′), Fabian Jankovic (73′)
- Venue: Tony Bezzina Stadium, Paola
- Competition: VBET Malta Premier (Opening Round, Matchday 1)
