After the home success against Grasshopper, the second in this league, FC Lugano prepares for the away match in Winterthur. On Sunday at 4:30 p.m., the Bianconeri will take the field at the Schützenwiese against the red and white formation, last in the standings and still without victories.For Mattia Croci-Torti, last week's success was fundamental: "Last week's victory against Grasshopper was very important. We needed three points to regain conviction and serenity.This week there was a different, more positive air. It was a dirty victory, obtained by gritting our teeth, and it is these that give us morale."
The HCL coach called for maximum attention against an opponent that always tries to start strong at home: "We know what it means to play at the Schützenwiese. Winterthur, when they are in trouble, lean even more on their public and the first thirty minutes are always very intense. We will have to be ready from the start."
Analyzing the team's momentum, Croci-Torti emphasized progress on the defensive end: "In the last few games we have conceded fewer goals. After a complicated start we worked a lot on the defensive phase and the team responded well. In attack it was never a problem to create, but we needed to find solidity in the back. This is the right path."
Also at the press conference was Martim Marques, who confirmed his confidence in his personal growth path: "In these two years in Lugano I have improved a lot thanks to the work of the team and staff. Playing at the Schützenwiese is never easy, but we have prepared well and we want to win." The Portuguese then told about his reference points, "Nuno Mendes is a model for me. He is uncatchable in one-on-one, he plays without fear, and his style resembles mine. Watching him is a stimulus to grow."
Croci-Torti finally looked realistically at the importance of the match: "I had already said a week ago that these two matches, against Grasshopper and Winterthur, could give us the measure of our championship. I am convinced that the boys will show up with the same energy as in recent weeks-I see a very focused team. It will not be easy, but we can give continuity to our path."
The starting whistle is scheduled for Sunday at 4:30 p.m. at the Schützenwiese.
THE INJURED
Ahmed Kendouci resumed partial work with the group, continues his recovery process.
Kelvin e Steffen continue their respective individual rehabilitation programs, with the goal of returning to the team in the coming weeks. Bottani suffered a tendon injury to the right adductor. Recovery time will be evaluated as the rehabilitation progresses.