FC Lugano's last match of 2025 puts heavy stakes on the line. On Sunday 21 December, with kick-off at 16.30 in Cornaredo, the Bianconeri host the BSC Young Boys in a direct confrontation that is worth points, classification and continuity. The two teams are separated by only one length: FC Lugano is fourth at 30 points, YB follows at 29, with the overtaking matured during the midweek turn thanks to the success of Mattia Croci-Torti's boys on the FC Zurich's field, combined with the defeat of the Bernese 6-2 against Grasshopper CZ.
The context makes the challenge even more delicate. Gerardo Seoane's men arrive in Ticino with the aim to react immediately to the 6 goals taken, while FC Lugano wants to close the calendar year in the best possible way in front of its public.
CROSSES TORTI "I EXPECT AN ANGRY YOUNG BOYS".
Speaking in the press conference before the game, Mattia Croci-Torti talked about the attitude he expects from the adversaries: "I expect an angry and frustrated Young Boys. I don't know how many times in the last ten years they have conceded six goals at home, so there will be a big reaction. That's why it will be a very difficult game.
Looking too far ahead, however, is not in the Bianconeri coach's plans, not even with the possibility of creating a small margin in the standings: "It's too early to talk about a 'gap'. The championship is long and the only reasoning to do is to win match after match. We are playing at home and we want to make the last present of the year to our fans, giving all the energy we have'.
The absence of Lukas Mai, who is disqualified, was also among the issues touched upon in the conference: "As when any player is missing, it weighs heavily. But we have enough alternatives to play a great game," explained Croci-Torti, who then reiterated the centrality of the group and of elements such as Kelvin, who came on in the second half against Zurich.
KOUTIAS "THE IMPORTANT THING IS TO HELP THE TEAM WIN".
From a tactical point of view, attention was also paid to the position of Georgios Koutsias, who has been employed in the last two matches wide on the left flank: "The data says that we are the team that crosses more from the right, so we need more presence in the box on the opposite side. Georgios gives us this solution, because he attacks the area well and is willing to sacrifice," added the coach, highlighting how the choice is functional to the offensive balance.
Koutsias himself, who was present at the conference, explained the reasons for his connection with the club: "I arrived in January and immediately felt at home. Here we have a great future in front of us and I want to live it with FC Lugano". No particular pressure even on the scoring front: "The important thing is to win. It doesn't matter who scores, but to take the three points", as well as no problem in changing role: "I spoke with the coach, it depends on the matches. I can play on the left or as a centre forward, the aim is always to help the team'.
ENERGY MANAGEMENT
Finally, with the third game in seven days, the subject of energy remains open, but the message is clear: "It's the last game of the year, it doesn't matter who is tired. Everyone gives everything they have," concluded Croci-Torti, who reiterated how the constancy shown by the team in a balanced championship is one of the aspects that most satisfies him.
Cornaredo is ready for the last fixture of 2025. At stake are not only three points, but the chance to say goodbye to the year with a further confirmation of the path undertaken.
AVAILABLE
From a medical point of view, David von Ballmoos and Mattia Bottani have entered the final phase of recovery from their respective injuries, while Ezgjan Alioski has completely overcome his fracture and is training with the group. On the other hand, the condition of Alexandre Duville-Parsemain, who is currently ill, remains to be assessed, while Lukas Mai - disqualified for Sunday's match - suffered a flexor muscle injury during the recent match on the FC Zurich pitch.
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