Ħamrun Spartans coach Giacomo Modica is demanding full commitment from his players as they prepare to face Swiss side FC Lausanne in their second UEFA Europa Conference League group match on Thursday night at the National Stadium (kick-off: 21:00).

The fixture marks a historic milestone for both the club and Maltese football, as Ħamrun will become the first Maltese team to host a League Phase match in a UEFA club competition on home soil.

“A Special Night for Maltese Football”

The Spartans began their group campaign last month with a strong performance in Poland, narrowly losing 1–0 to last season’s quarter-finalists Jagiellonia. Modica believes his team can build on that display but expects another stern test against Lausanne.

“I expect my players to be a bit emotional before the start of the match — but not too much, as that could be a problem,” Modica said with a smile.
“This is a special night not just for our club, but for Maltese football in general.
We’re competing in a top UEFA club competition — the kind of stage we all aspire to reach.”

Modica praised Lausanne’s quality, referencing their 3–0 victory over Icelandic side Breidablik in their opening group fixture.

“Lausanne are a very strong side and have enjoyed an excellent start to the competition,” he said. “But our performance in Poland gives me confidence that we can deliver another strong showing.”

“We Must Give 200 Per Cent”

The Italian coach acknowledged that Lausanne’s experience and technical quality will make them formidable opponents.

“They are a very strong and experienced European team,” Modica noted.
“If every player doesn’t give 200 per cent, we risk suffering a heavy defeat.
They are technically gifted, so we must respond with physical strength, grit, and determination.
We need to show the same unity and discipline we displayed in Poland.”

When asked about Lausanne’s key threats, Modica highlighted the pace and movement of their attacking line.

“Their main striker is powerful and fast, and they have creative players behind him who can change the rhythm of the game,” he explained.
“We must stay tactically organised and read every phase of play intelligently. There will be moments when we have to suffer — but resilience and heart will be crucial.”

Squad News

Ħamrun will be without winger Joseph Mbong, who serves a one-match suspension following his red card against Jagiellonia. Apart from that, Modica confirmed he has a full squad available for selection.

“We Believe in Ourselves”

Defender Vincenzo Polito echoed his coach’s sentiments, saying the team is eager to rise to the occasion.

“The game against Jagiellonia gave us a lot of belief,” Polito said.
“If we show the same spirit and discipline, we can make our fans and club proud. This team has already proven it can compete at this level.”

Message to the Fans

Modica concluded by paying tribute to the Spartans’ passionate supporters, who have followed the team throughout their European journey.

“Our fans have been incredible,” he said. “Everywhere we played in Europe, around 200–250 supporters travelled to back us. Their affection and loyalty mean a lot to us.
I’m sure they’ll be there again on Thursday, and we’ll do everything we can to give them a performance to celebrate.”