Birkirkara coach Gianluca Festa is eager for his side to build on their encouraging start to the Closing Round when they take on Gżira United on Friday evening at the Tedesco Stadium (kick-off 6.30pm).

The Stripes returned to winning ways last week by ending a six-match losing run with an impressive second-half display that saw them sweep past Hibernians 3–0. The result provided a timely boost for Festa’s men and offered clear evidence that the January transfer activity, which significantly reshaped the squad, is beginning to pay off.

Friday’s encounter, however, presents another stern test. Gżira United have been among the division’s most consistent teams since Darren Abdilla took over from Clive Mizzi, and they arrive in confident mood.

Festa admitted he was pleased with his team’s showing against Hibernians but stressed the need for another disciplined performance.

“The boys showed belief against Hibernians, and now we face a very organised Gżira side who have also started this phase well,” the former Middlesbrough defender said.

“We know how important this match is. They have quality individuals, but we are ready. The players are working with great enthusiasm in training, and we want to take that same attitude onto the pitch for the full 90 minutes.

“Earlier in the season we were missing several players through injury, but now the squad has more quality and depth. That creates healthy competition and pushes everyone to raise their level.

“The mentality is key. It’s about the group and our collective objectives, not individuals. The new signings have brought experience and are helping us move in the right direction.”

Defender Alessandro Coppola echoed his coach’s sentiments, noting a positive shift in the squad’s mindset in recent weeks.

“We played well last Sunday, but Friday will be another big challenge against a very good team,” Coppola said.

“The arrival of new players has changed our mentality. Everyone is pulling in the same direction now, and competition within the squad has increased, which is a good thing.

“The atmosphere in the dressing room is positive again, and the team spirit is strong.”

Gżira United also head into the match on the back of an impressive 3–0 victory over Marsaxlokk, with Brazilian forward Maxuell Maia grabbing the headlines after scoring a hat-trick.

Coach Darren Abdilla said the team’s recent form came as no surprise, with Gżira recording eight wins, one draw and two defeats in their last 11 matches.

“When I took over, the team was at the bottom, but I always believed in the quality of this squad,” Abdilla said.

“Perhaps at the beginning the players lacked confidence. This new phase has given us fresh motivation, but we must remain grounded after the win over Marsaxlokk.”

Abdilla also warned his players not to underestimate Birkirkara, whom he described as a “completely different team” compared to earlier in the season.

“They’ve bounced back strongly after six defeats,” he said.

“We’re confident in our ability to perform and get a positive result. This is a group full of hunger and ambition, and it’s a pleasure to work with players who have such a strong attitude.

“Our minimum objective remains a top-six finish in the Closing Round, and then we’ll see how things develop.”

Gżira goalkeeper Eduardo Colombo believes a change in mentality has been central to his team’s upturn in form.

“Friday’s match will be very tough against a club with great history,” the San Marino international said.

“I’ve settled in well thanks to the support of my teammates. Our attitude has changed in recent weeks, and that’s now part of our identity.

“At the start, many of us were new and needed time to adapt. The positive results have given us confidence, and now we know what’s expected as we push to achieve the club’s objectives.”