Dingli Swallows edged St George’s 5–4 in a dramatic encounter, while Senglea Athletic recorded the biggest victory of the opening round of the 2026/27 BOV National Cup.

Dingli recovered from two goals down to lead 4–2 before St George’s fought back to level. Jade Clarke settled the contest with an 83rd-minute winner, securing the Swallows’ place in the second round.

Senglea swept aside Santa Venera Lightnings 8–0, with Johan Castano and Adrian Caruana scoring twice each. Qormi also progressed comfortably, defeating Kirkop United 6–1, with Michaes Spiteri marking his senior debut with two goals.

Marsaskala put their difficult league start behind them to beat Għargħur 2–0 through goals from Souleymane Kante and Chris Bohui. Żejtun Corinthians overcame Msida St Joseph 3–0 despite Matteo Tanti’s dismissal before half-time, with Matthew Farrugia scoring twice after Nelson Mangion’s opener.

Lija Athletic survived a second-half comeback to defeat Ta’ Xbiex 4–3, having led 4–1 at the interval. San Ġwann needed extra time to overcome Xgħajra Tornados 3–1, with James Falana and Benjamin Spiteri scoring after the sides finished level over 90 minutes.

Elsewhere, Rabat Ajax beat St Lawrence Spurs 4–0, Kalkara United defeated Għaxaq 4–1 and Luqa St Andrew’s overcame ten-man Munxar Falcons by the same score.

Mqabba edged Għarb Rangers 2–1, while Qrendi beat Siġġiewi 2–0. Claudio Marini scored both goals in Nadur Youngsters’ 2–0 victory over Oratory Youths, and Murilo Freira’s early header earned Mellieħa a 1–0 win against Pembroke Athleta.

Marsa advanced without playing after Mtarfa failed to fulfil their fixture.

Second-round fixtures

• Rabat Ajax v Mqabba
• Mellieħa v Senglea Athletic
• Lija Athletic v San Ġwann
• Qrendi v Nadur Youngsters
• Marsaskala v Qormi
• Żejtun Corinthians v Kalkara United
• Marsa v Dingli Swallows
• Luqa St Andrew’s v Mdina Knights