Gudja had one of their best performances of the season and were just moments away from securing their first win of the season.

Balzan started strong, creating several opportunities towards Justin Spiteri’s goal.

In the 8th minute, Leonardo da Silva tested Gudja’s goalkeeper, Justin Spiteri, who made a good save. Shortly after, da Silva was on target again, with a well-placed free-kick.

In the 19th minute, Gudja came close to scoring as Matias Muchardi’s outside-the-box free-kick, narrowly veered off target.

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Exactly at the 45-minute mark, Justin Spiteri once again made a crucial save, this time denying Marcus Grima’s close-range effort.

The first half ended in a goalless draw.

Gudja United took the lead in the second half when they were awarded a penalty after Nikola Zerjal brought down Neil Tabone in the box. Abou Toure stepped up to convert the penalty from 11 metres, giving Gudja the advantage.

Balzan responded in the 51st minute when Peter Olawale made a good run, entered the box, and fired a shot that Justin Spiteri saved skillfully.

Gudja’s Man of the Match, Justin Spiteri, continued to shine, making several crucial saves to deny Balzan.

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In the 66th minute, Balzan coach Oliver Spiteri made three substitutions, including the entry of Jake Grech. The latter proved pivotal in the 71st minute when, following a shot by Leonardo da Silva saved by Justin Spiteri, Grech scored from the rebound.

In the 78th minute, Gudja extended their lead with a splendid goal from outside the box by Matias Muchardi after a well-played pass from Gianluca Lorenzoni.

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In the 86th minute, Balzan were awarded a penalty when Armando Melo brought down Dimeji Awosanya inside the box.

Leonardo da Souza took the penalty but was denied by Spiteri. However, the Brazilian forward managed to score from the rebound.

In injury time, Balzan finished the game with ten men after Momcilo Raso received a direct red card.

With this draw, the standings for both teams remain relatively unchanged, with Gudja obtaining their fifth draw of the season and still seeking their first win of the season.

Referee: Matthew Degabriele