Estonian midfielder Mattias Männilaan has carved his name into Gibraltar’s football history, celebrating a league title win with Lincoln Red Imps after their decisive 2-0 victory against Manchester 62 in the final round of the Gibraltar Premier Division.
Though Mattias Männilaan (23) watched from the bench, his impact across the season was undeniable. Since joining Lincoln Red Imps in the winter transfer window, he played ten matches, starting in four, and contributed three goals alongside an assist, including scoring on his debut. As the final whistle blew, he rushed onto the pitch, joining his teammates in jubilant celebrations as the club secured its 29th championship title.
Lincoln Red Imps entered the last round locked in a title race with St Joseph’s, both teams tied on points. However, Lincoln held the advantage based on their superior head-to-head record, meaning a victory would guarantee their crown. Spanish forward Kike Gomez ensured there was no room for doubt, scoring in the first half and again early in the second, sealing Lincoln’s triumph.
For Männilaan, the success is particularly special—he becomes the first Estonian footballer to win a league title in Gibraltar, adding his name to an exclusive list of 25 Estonians who have lifted championship trophies abroad. His contract with Lincoln Red Imps runs until the end of the season, with an option to extend for another year.
Looking ahead, the celebrations will soon turn into preparations for European competition. Like Estonia’s FCI Levadia, Lincoln Red Imps will enter the Champions League first qualifying round, with matches scheduled for July 8-9 and 15-16.
Lincoln Red Imps’ 29th title further cements their status as Gibraltar’s most successful football club, outpacing rivals Prince of Wales (19), Glacis United (17), Britannia XI (14), and Gibraltar United (11). Meanwhile, St Joseph’s—Lincoln’s closest challengers this season—have only won the league once, back in 1995-96.
Source: https://soccernet.ee/artikkel/vagev-mattias-mannilaan-krooniti-gibraltari-meistriks
