The FXDD Knock-Out competition has reached a decisive phase as four teams will be vying for a place in the final when the semi-finals are played at the Corradino Pavillion tonight.

In the first match, Vittoriosa take on Żabbar in the derby of the south.

Vittoriosa ousted Valletta and Melita in the opening two rounds before easing past Żurrieq in the last-eight stage.

The Cottonera side’s progress in the competition is somewhat remarkable in view of their decision to field only homegrown players.

They are now on the brink of another landmark in the club’s history as they are just one win away from reaching their first ever knock-out final.

However, Vittoriosa have a difficult task as they face a Żabbar side who eliminated champions Hibernians following a 5-4 victory in the second round. In the quarter-finals, they edged out Division One side Gżira 10-9.

Żabbar will rely on key player Nikolay Filipov who is lethal in front of goal.

On the other hand, Kenneth Spiteri and Clive Calleja pose the biggest threat to the St Patrick side.

In their last league encounter, played almost a month ago, Żabbar defeated Vittoriosa 4-2.

In the second semi-final, holders Balzan take on Pembroke. The former are favourites to book their place in the final but in cup football, anything is possible.

Balzan, third in the Premier League, have a strong squad and are further boosted by the return of star player Clint Cope who scored a brace in their last league match against Żabbar.

Balzan reached the semi-finals after seeing off Sirens, Qormi and Swieqi.

Pembroke, fourth in the league, have knocked out Ħamrun, Mqabba and San Ġwann on their way to the semi-finals. They hope to have top scorer Floren Manea in top form as they look to upset Balzan.

In their last meeting, Balzan beat Pembroke 8-2.

Today’s semi-finals
Corradino: 8pm Vittoriosa vs Żabbar; 9.30pm Balzan vs Pembroke.