Hamrun Spartans earned a 1-0 win against Rigas Futbola Skola in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League playoff on August 22, 2025. The Maltese champions defended resolutely to take a narrow lead to Latvia after a tense and closely-fought encounter. The match's only goal came from a first-half penalty, awarded after a handball in the RFS box, which was converted with composure by the Hamrun captain. The Latvian side, Rigas Futbola Skola, dominated possession for large periods and created several opportunities from crosses and set-pieces, but they were unable to find a way past the inspired Hamrun goalkeeper. The home side's disciplined defensive block frustrated RFS throughout, securing a clean sheet that could prove invaluable. The Hamrun manager hailed his team's fighting spirit, while the RFS coach expressed frustration at his team's lack of cutting edge but remained optimistic for the return leg.