Action from the last league clash between Ħamrun and Qormi. Photo: Joe BorgThe futsal KO quarter-finals will be played at the Corradino Sports Pavilion between today and Monday.
Balzan, the holders, have experienced a few bumps in the Premier Division, particularly the 1-5 upset to Qormi, but Boycho Marev’s boys will be looking to maintain their quest to retain the knock-out title when playing Gżira United.
Gżira are also struggling for consistency in the championship, slipping to second-bottom after losing nine out of 10 games this season.
Balzan have reached the last eight after ousting First Division sides Luqa St Andrews (13-0) and Lija Athletic (5-1) while the Maroons knocked out Naxxar Lions 7-4 and Siġġiewi 4-2 to reach the quarter-finals.
In a league match earlier this season, Balzan trounced Gżira United 8-2, so they start favourites to reach the semi-finals.
Valletta take on Swieqi in an all-Premier Division clash.
This should be a finely-poised cup tie with Valletta emerging winners 8-6 over Swieqi in a tight league match this season.
On Monday, Ħamrun Spartans cross swords with neighbours Qormi in probably the most-awaited quarter-final as both teams have impressed lately.
The Spartans, who beat Qormi 4-2 in the league, are only one point behind league leaders Luxol while Qormi are also showing progress as witnessed in their last match against champions Balzan.
In the previous round, Ħamrun beat Mellieħa 7-5 and Qormi cruised past Mqabba 8-1 and Mdina 9-1.
In the remaining last-eight tie, Luxol start favourites to overcome the challenge of Żebbuġ Rangers, currently languishing in the Premier Division drop zone.