Ħamrun Spartans and Hibernians will be looking to maintain their perfect record in the Closing Round of the 360 Sports Malta Premier when they face off at the Tony Bezzina Stadium on Sunday (kick-off: 2pm).
The Spartans, after a low-key performance in the Opening Round, have no margin for error as they are aware that they need to finish top of the Closing Round to stay in contention to successfully defend their status as Malta champions.
On the other hand, Hibernians, aware of the increasing competition that exists for a place in the Top 6, will be desperate to make it two wins on the trot and a win over the defending champions will surely be a major injection of self-confidence to a team that has yet to show some consistency in the league this season.
Branko Nisevic, the Hibernians coach, is aware of the major challenge awaiting his team as they are up against a Ħamrun side that have been significantly bolstered in recent weeks and have been showing imperious form in 2025, following a 6-1 win over Marsaxlokk in the league and a 5-0 rout of Swieqi United in the FA Trophy.
“This is the third time we are facing Ħamrun, and they’ve changed significantly,” the Serbian coach said.
“They’ve brought in several quality players and are undoubtedly the top contenders for the league title. We also made changes during the transfer window, bringing in two new players to strengthen key positions.
“This Hibernians team is different from a few years ago.
“We are working to build a strong squad, reminiscent of when this club used to dominate.
“Winning three or four matches in a row has been rare for us, and there isn’t a team showing consistent form in terms of winning, apart from Birkirkara’s impressive streak of nine consecutive victories earlier on.
“We try to balance things by sometimes relying on younger players, and I think we’ve done well so far.
“We know this Closing Round will be more challenging, but our primary goal is to finish again in the top six in this League Phase and proceed from there.”
Young Hibernians midfielder Lucas Caruana is slowly establishing himself in the Paola side and the former Sampdoria player made it clear that his team are targeting a place in Europe.
“In every training session, we give our all to reach our targets, that is winning every single game, and reach our ultimate objective of qualifying for Europe if not winning one of the two major honours,” Caruana said.
“Our squad has a lot of local talent, and I’m grateful for their support. They’ve always assisted me throughout my journey.
“Thanks to them and the club, I’ve grown as a player. I’m pushing myself, alongside the rest of the team, to improve every single day.
“The local players have been instrumental in helping the younger ones, and I do my best to contribute to the team’s objectives.”
Ħamrun Spartans have been showing glimpses of the form that saw them lift the Premier League title for a tenth time last season.
But coach Alessandro Zinnari is not resting on his laurels and wants his players to try and lift their game to a higher level.
“The last three matches have been very positive but are now gone and only serve for confidence and in propelling us towards more positive results in future matches,” Zinnari said.
“My players are working hard every single day. Tactically, we haven’t changed much, but every match is different.
“Many teams are in a transition period this month due to changes in squads and the addition of new players.
“We’re coming off a good run of results, which is great for our confidence.
“In terms of squad depth, the new signings, the players who are back from the treatment room have all fitted back perfectly in the dynamics of the team. We hope Roko Prsa, Shaisen Attard, and Gabriel Vella who are still on the road to recovery, also return strongly and give their contribution to the team.
“Hibernians are a strong side, and it will be a challenging game on Sunday.
“Our focus is to take it one match at a time and aim for three points in every game.
“Every day is an opportunity for my players to improve, stay in good shape both physically and mentally, stay focused and determined in helping the club reach their end-of-season goals.”
Zinnari was flanked by one of the Spartans new arrivals, Ognjen Bjelicic, who this month started his second spell with the club and has already established himself as a key member of the team’s backline.
“It feels a bit different this time, but our aim is clear – to win every game and ultimately win the title.
“My team-mates have made it easier for me to reintegrate into the squad. We give 100 per cent in every single match because I understand the pressure and expectations here.
“I believe I’ve settled in well, thanks to the team’s support.
“It’s my responsibility to work hard and repay the trust Ħamrun has shown in bringing me back to Maltese football.
“Ħamrun is my home now, and I’ll give everything possible to help the coach and the team achieve our goal of winning the title once again.”
PLAYING ON FRIDAY
NATIONAL STADIUM
Balzan vs Mosta 18.00
Sliema W. vs Naxxar 20.15
PLAYING ON SATURDAY
NATIONAL STADIUM
Melita vs Floriana 14.00
Birkirkara vs Gżira 16.15
PLAYING SUNDAY
TONY BEZZINA STADIUM
Hibernians vs Ħamrun S. 14.00
Marsaxlokk vs Żabbar SP 16.15
