In a tightly contested match, FC Aarau managed to secure a 1-1 draw against AC Bellinzona at the Comunale stadium, marking their third consecutive stalemate in the Challenge League. The game, which was played in front of an estimated 500 fans, saw Aarau’s Serge Müller score from the penalty spot in the 34th minute, only for Rilind Nivokazi to equalize for Bellinzona just eight minutes later.
The atmosphere in Bellinzona was a stark contrast to the nearly 6,500 fans that filled the stands at Stadion Brügglifeld just three days earlier. Despite the sparse crowd, the traveling Aarau supporters made their presence felt with lively drumming and singing, creating a spirited atmosphere amidst the chilly conditions.
Müller’s penalty came after a foul on Yannick Toure by Bellinzona’s Jonathan Sabbatini. The defender stepped up to take the spot-kick, having recently converted a similar opportunity against Xamax. His shot grazed the right post before finding the back of the net, giving Aarau a temporary lead.
However, the joy was short-lived as Nivokazi struck back for the home side just before halftime. Following a corner, the ball found its way to Nivokazi, who made no mistake in leveling the score. For Andreas Hirzel, Aarau’s replacement goalkeeper in this match due to Marvin Hübel’s suspension, it was a disappointing moment as he conceded his first goal in his fourth appearance for the club.
Despite the setback, FC Aarau maintained their position at the top of the league table, thanks in part to the misfortunes of FC Thun, who suffered a heavy 0-3 defeat against Stade Lausanne-Ouchy. This result allowed Aarau to retain their promotion spot, even as they faced criticism for not securing a win against a team struggling near the bottom of the table.
After the match, Aarau coach Brunello Iacopetta expressed mixed feelings about the performance. "We started well, but we need to maintain that intensity throughout the match. We let our guard down and paid the price for it," he remarked. The team’s pressing and transition play lacked the urgency seen in their previous outing against Carouge, and this was evident as the match progressed.
As the second half unfolded, both teams had their chances, but neither could convert. Aarau struggled to create clear opportunities, with their best efforts being a corner from Valon Fazliu that was poorly executed and a long-range effort from Sofian Bahloul that sailed high over the bar.
Bellinzona, on the other hand, looked more dangerous as the match wore on. Nivokazi nearly found the net again when his shot struck the post, a moment that could have turned the tide in favor of the home side. The hosts continued to press for a winner, with Johan Nkama coming close to scoring but failing to find the target.
With the draw, FC Aarau remains unbeaten in their last 15 games, but the lack of victories in recent matches raises questions about their ability to clinch the title. The team must regroup quickly as they prepare to face Stade Lausanne-Ouchy at home on Friday, April 4, 2025, in what promises to be a crucial encounter.
As the season progresses, the battle for promotion remains fierce. Aarau’s ability to capitalize on their position at the top of the table will be tested as they face teams like Ouchy, who will be looking to build on their recent success against Thun. The upcoming match will be pivotal for both teams, as they vie for crucial points in the race for promotion.
In conclusion, while FC Aarau left Bellinzona with a point, the missed opportunity to secure a win against a relegation-threatened side could prove significant as the season nears its climax. With the league title within reach, the pressure is on Iacopetta’s men to rediscover their winning form and fend off the challenges from their closest rivals.
