FC Lugano beat KF Dukagjini 5–1 in Pristina, sealing a 6–1 aggregate victory and securing their place in Q3 of the UEFA Conference League. At the end of the match, Mattia Croci-Torti highlighted, above all, the attitude shown by the bianconeri, who were able to approach a tie already decided by their first-leg victory with focus and intensity.
THE MENTALITY
The bianconeri manager highlighted the maturity with which the team approached the match from the very start, without letting their concentration slip: “The team had to show they were in a different league in terms of mental strength and focus. We were focused from the very first second to the very last: we came here to do our job and created loads of chances.”
The victory also allows FC Lugano to build on their start to the season: “We’ve secured three consecutive wins, which was exactly what we wanted. We’re taking this confidence with us, along with a strong desire to continue our run in the competition.”
TEAM SELECTION DECISIONS
When it comes to team selection, Croci-Torti explains that the aim remains to gradually integrate new players without upsetting the balance the team has built up: “When you have players like Moncada and Beckham Castro, you have a duty to try and integrate them, but the team’s chemistry and synergy come first. At the moment we’re playing a lot of matches, so it’s best to stick with certain tried-and-tested options, whilst continuing to work on integrating players with different qualities.”
THE BOND WITH THE FANS
Finally, Croci-Torti dedicates a thought to the supporters who have travelled to Pristina to back the team in the return leg as well: “It’s incredible what they’ve done again today. Coming all this way to support us in this stadium is a source of great pride for me. Over the years, a wonderful bond has been forged between the Curva, the Lugano fans and the team.”
With qualification secured, attention immediately turns to the league and Sunday’s away match against Grasshopper Club Zürich: “We need to be ready. It will be a difficult match and we must be aware that we’re in for a real test.”