FC Lugano leave the Wankdorf Stadium with a draw that reflects the balance of play on the pitch and keeps the Bianconeri’s run going against a direct rival. A point which, whilst not entirely satisfactory, is accepted with a sense of realism by Mattia Croci-Torti, particularly given the attitude shown by the team.
“We fought until the very end, we took risks, we tried, we wanted to win the match,” emphasised the Bianconeri manager in his post-match comments, highlighting the squad’s determination to aim for more than just a draw. “We didn’t manage it, but I saw a Lugano side that managed to come back from behind yet again.”
There remains some regret over the goal conceded in the opening minutes and a few missed chances, but the feeling, especially after the equaliser, was that we could have completed the comeback. “Unfortunately, we made a mistake in that opening situation, then we missed a couple of chances, but we stayed in the game and after the score was 1-1 I felt we could win it,” added Croci-Torti, before acknowledging the value of the result achieved: “We’ll take this draw home. It’s a point; it’s never easy here.”
A LOOK AHEAD TO THE END OF THE SEASON
Overall, Lugano’s performance is viewed in a positive light, particularly given the difficulties caused by absences and the need to adapt on a case-by-case basis. “I didn’t see a negative team, but a positive one that fought back blow for blow,” explained the manager, emphasising how the team consistently sought to build play and create chances throughout the ninety minutes.
At the same time, attention is already turning to the coming weeks, with the international break representing a valuable opportunity. “I think so, it does us good; we’ll get players back,” said Croci-Torti, referring to the gradual returns and the chance to welcome back key players ahead of the final sprint.
It is precisely the end of the season that is at the centre of the manager’s thoughts, as he looks ahead with confidence to the Club’s campaign: “Now come the final matches, the ones that count for so much in the race for a UEFA spot.” Having faced demanding away fixtures, the belief is that Lugano can make their mark, especially on home turf: “I’m convinced that at home we can really beat these opponents.”
The draw in Bern, therefore, comes at a delicate yet opportunity-rich moment: a point that confirms the Bianconeri’s competitiveness and keeps them firmly in the running, with the knowledge that they can still make an impact in the coming decisive weeks.