Malta’s reigning champions, Hamrun Spartans, are set for a challenging encounter in the UEFA Champions League First Qualifying Round, drawing Lithuanian powerhouse FK Žalgiris Vilnius. This highly anticipated matchup pits two dominant domestic teams against each other, both with a recent history of league success.
Much like the Hamrun Spartans, who have asserted their authority in Maltese football, FK Žalgiris Vilnius has been a formidable force in Lithuania’s A Lyga, the country’s top division. They have remarkably clinched four of the last five A Lyga championships, showcasing their consistent performance and strong squad. This parallel in recent domestic success sets the stage for an intriguing battle between two champions eager to make their mark on the European stage.
The first leg of this crucial UEFA Champions League qualifier will see the Hamrun Spartans travel to Lithuania, with the match scheduled to take place between July 8th and 9th. The return leg, where the Spartans will enjoy home advantage in Malta, is set for July 15th or 16th. Football enthusiasts in Malta and Lithuania will be eagerly awaiting these dates as both teams vie for a spot in the next round of Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
