The victory at the Stockhorn Arena got Lugano’s Championship Group campaign off to the best possible start. On a tense evening, with Thun poised to celebrate their first-ever title, the bianconeri found the winning goal in the 97th minute through a penalty converted by Ezgjan Alioski. After the match, Mattia Croci-Torti reflected on his team’s success.
The manager’s first thoughts went straight to Alioski, the hero from the spot under immense pressure: ‘When I saw him on the spot, I thought of the penalty he’d scored earlier in the season against Celje. If he took the ball, it’s because he felt confident.” Croci-Torti then highlighted the player’s character, on his first league goal since returning to the bianconeri: “Alioski is a player of great character, who came here to make a difference. Things certainly haven’t gone to plan this season, but in recent days he’s shown me a real desire to carve out a place for himself as a key player.”
After the match, the manager spoke with Mauro Lustrinelli, acknowledging the excellent work he has done at the helm of Thun: “I told him he’s been brilliant. When you’re a colleague and you see another team do what Thun have done this year, you can only take your hat off to them and offer your heartfelt congratulations.” A sincere tribute, linked too to the atmosphere at the Stockhorn Arena: “The energy felt in this stadium is down to him, because he’s managed to generate so much excitement around the team.”
For this very reason, Lugano’s response carries significant weight. The team managed to navigate a challenging evening, in an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm, showing character and composure right up to the final minute. “I had no intention of spoiling anyone’s party,” explained Croci-Torti. “I wanted to show that my team could beat such a strong side for the third time in a row.”
The victory in Thun therefore represents an important milestone in the European campaign, but the coach’s message remains focused on the journey still to be completed. “We must try to win as many matches as possible. There’s no point in doing the maths at this stage. Our sole mission now is to stay focused.”
In closing, Croci-Torti also rallied the bianconeri fans ahead of the next two home matches: “I expect a Cornaredo packed with enthusiasm, helping this team achieve what we’re working towards.”