The Enemed Cup 2026 delivered a classic on Wednesday evening as Neptunes Best Gyms Malta edged arch-rivals Sliema Frank Salt Real Estate 13–12 in a pulsating waterpolo encounter at the National Pool, Tal-Qroqq.

The match had everything — intensity, momentum swings, and top-class finishing — as both sides traded goals throughout before Stevie Camilleri’s late strike sealed victory for Neptunes with just 21 seconds left on the clock.

End-to-End Drama

Sliema started the stronger side, taking an early 4–3 lead at the end of the first quarter through goals from Jake Cachia (2), Daniel Rizzo, and Benji Cachia. Neptunes responded through Ryan Galea, Mark Castillo, and Stevie Camilleri, who set the tone for what became an end-to-end battle.

In the second quarter, Neptunes found their rhythm, outscoring Sliema 6–2 to take a 9–6 halftime lead. Captain Stevie Camilleri was in sensational form, netting four times in that period, while Sean Mifsud, Alastair Cook, and Andreas Fava also contributed.

However, Sliema refused to fade. With Jake Cachia unstoppable in front of goal — adding a further three to his tally — they stormed back in the third session, turning a 9–5 deficit into a 10–10 tie, with Jayden Cassar and Sam Engerer also finding the net.

The final quarter saw both teams trade blows once again. Dino Zammit put Sliema ahead 12–11, but Neptunes hit back through Alastair Cook, before Stevie Camilleri stepped up once more, firing home the decisive goal in the dying moments to secure a dramatic 13–12 win.

Top Performers

• Stevie Camilleri (Neptunes) – 6 goals, including the late winner
• Jake Cachia (Sliema) – 5 goals, driving Sliema’s second-half resurgence
• Alastair Cook (Neptunes) – 2 goals, strong all-round performance
• Daniel Rizzo (Sliema) – 2 goals

Quarter Scores:

Q1: Neptunes 3–4 Sliema
Q2: Neptunes 6–2 Sliema
Q3: Neptunes 2–4 Sliema
Q4: Neptunes 2–2 Sliema

Final Score: Neptunes Best Gyms Malta 13 – 12 Sliema Frank Salt Real Estate

The result keeps Neptunes unbeaten in the competition and underlines their championship credentials, while Sliema’s valiant effort proved why this rivalry remains one of Maltese waterpolo’s most captivating fixtures.

San Ġiljan Outclass Valletta in Dominant Enemed Cup Victory

San Ġiljan MAA Daikin powered to an impressive 15–12 victory over Valletta Peak Insurance in a thrilling Enemed Cup 2026 encounter at the National Pool, Tal-Qroqq. The defending champions showcased their quality and depth, controlling large spells of the match despite a spirited Valletta comeback attempt in the final quarter.

High-Intensity Start

The match opened at a frantic pace, with both sides finding the net early. Valletta’s Max Zammit proved lethal in attack, scoring five goals, while Ken Erdogan and Jacob Sciberras also made key contributions. However, San Ġiljan’s experience shone through, led by captain Matthew Zammit, who matched Max Zammit’s tally with five goals of his own.

By the end of the first half, San Ġiljan had established a comfortable advantage through well-organized defensive play and sharp transitions led by Ben Plumpton and Jeremy Abela, who both scored hat-tricks.

San Ġiljan Maintain Control

Despite Valletta’s efforts to close the gap through Erdogan and Jake Colombo, San Ġiljan remained composed. Daniel Tully added two goals, while Nico Schiavone and Nikolai Zammit each chipped in with one. Goalkeeper Aiden Muscat was solid between the posts, keeping Valletta at bay during key moments in the third and fourth quarters.

Coach Zeljko Kovacic’s side displayed exceptional discipline and teamwork, effectively neutralizing Valletta’s attacking surges while maintaining a steady offensive rhythm.

Valletta’s Late Push Falls Short

Valletta’s resilience was evident in the final quarter as Max Zammit continued to lead the charge, supported by Sciberras and Erdogan. Their late rally brought the scoreline closer, but San Ġiljan’s superior game management ensured they closed out the match confidently.

Top Performers

San Ġiljan MAA Daikin

• Matthew Zammit (C) – 5 goals
• Ben Plumpton – 3 goals
• Jeremy Abela – 3 goals
• Daniel Tully – 2 goals
• Nico Schiavone, Nikolai Zammit – 1 goal each

Valletta Peak Insurance

• Max Zammit – 5 goals
• Ken Erdogan – 2 goals
• Jacob Sciberras – 2 goals
• Vito Figliomeni, Mark Carani, Jake Colombo – 1 goal each

Final Score:

San Ġiljan MAA Daikin 15 – 12 Valletta Peak Insurance

With this win, San Ġiljan reaffirm their strong start to the Enemed Cup, while Valletta showed encouraging signs despite the defeat — particularly through the attacking prowess of Max Zammit, who continues to be one of the standout performers in this year’s competition.