Għaxaq Wolves booked their place in the second round of the MAFA KO with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over San Ġiljan Saints in a match that required a strong second-half comeback.

The Saints drew first blood after just nine minutes when Robert Veskimae found the net to put his side in front. However, the Wolves responded after the break, with Diego Fernando Pereira levelling matters before Sebastian Nayar calmly converted from the penalty spot to complete the turnaround and send Għaxaq through. The match was officiated by referee Gjorgji Bitri.

Valletta Stars edge Gudja Wanderers

Valletta Stars also progressed with a 2-1 win over Second Division side Gudja Wanderers. Renaid Yenti De Locht opened the scoring in the 34th minute, but Gudja fought back through Juliano De La Aguas Churio after the interval. Valletta restored their lead almost immediately, with Abba Auwal netting in the 48th minute to secure qualification. Lorry Sammut was the referee.

Valletta St Paul’s too strong for Attard Edex Kings

A dominant first-half display saw Valletta St Paul’s eliminate Second Division leaders Attard Edex Kings 3-1. Luka Asanidze struck after just one minute, and Andre Farrugia doubled the advantage three minutes later. Although Nestur Luis Silva reduced the deficit for Attard, Nika Glonti wrapped up the win in the 24th minute. Karl Galea took charge of the match.

San Ġwann Pro Evolution win derby

San Ġwann Pro Evolution Academy advanced with a 2-0 victory over Ta’ Ġiorni Wanderers in their derby clash. Oussama Benhessenb opened the scoring in the 12th minute, while Nino Barrabe sealed the result with a second goal in the 73rd minute. The referee was Alex Grech.

Comfortable win for Senglea Gunners

Senglea Gunners had little trouble dispatching Birżebbuġa St Peter’s AFC 3-0. Seedy Fofana put them ahead in the ninth minute, Isaac Kwesi Dankwah added a second on 23 minutes, and Olajide Ola Olaawale completed the scoring after the interval. The match was officiated by Peter Abela.

Ħamrun Sporting prevail on penalties

In the most dramatic tie of the round, Ħamrun Sporting needed penalties to overcome Swieqi United AFC. The match ended goalless after 70 minutes, but Ħamrun held their nerve in the shootout to win 7-6 and progress to the next phase. Ray Tabone was the referee.

The second round now promises more tightly contested encounters as the remaining teams continue their bid for MAFA KO glory.