Winston Muscat could not have asked for a better start to life as Naxxar Lions coach after guiding his side to a thrilling 3–2 victory over neighbours Mosta in a pulsating Bottom Six derby.

Appointed earlier this week following the departure of George Vella, Muscat knew that only a win would keep Naxxar’s survival hopes alive – and his players delivered in dramatic fashion.

Mosta struck first on 32 minutes, with Giancarlo Goncalves putting the hosts ahead and seemingly placing Naxxar under further pressure. However, the Lions responded positively and needed just six minutes to restore parity, as Gabriel Costa found the net to make it 1–1.

The momentum shifted again early in the second half when Charles Chibuike restored Mosta’s advantage on 56 minutes, leaving Naxxar facing an uphill battle. Refusing to surrender, the Lions pushed forward relentlessly and were rewarded late on.

Costa struck again on 89 minutes to level the score for a second time, before substitute Joao Victor produced the decisive moment in the fourth minute of stoppage time, completing a remarkable comeback and sparking jubilant celebrations among the Naxxar camp.

The vital victory lifts Naxxar Lions to nine points, cutting the gap on third-from-bottom Mosta to just four points and reigniting belief in their fight to avoid the bottom two places.

Gżira United Complete Late Turnaround Against Tarxien

Earlier in the day, Gżira United came from behind to defeat Tarxien Rainbows 2–1, dealing a significant blow to Tarxien’s survival hopes.

The Rainbows made a bright start and were rewarded on the stroke of half-time when Nhayson gave them the lead. Tarxien appeared on course for a crucial victory, but Gżira showed resilience in the closing stages.

Andre Pena Da Costa equalised on 82 minutes, before Gabriel Mentz converted a penalty five minutes later to seal all three points for Gżira.

The defeat leaves Tarxien Rainbows rooted to the bottom of the Bottom Six, with just six points to their name and their prospects of survival looking increasingly bleak.