The FC Aarau celebrated yet another victory, this time triumphing 1-0 against FC Vaduz at the Rheinpark Stadium. The decisive goal came from team captain Valon Fazliu, marking the start of early celebrations for the visitors who found themselves at the top of the table for 32 minutes during the match.
The early sixth-minute goal from Fazliu proved to be the only marker of the match, as Aarau continued to maintain control throughout most of the game. Despite the pressure from Vaduz as the clock ran down, FCA goalkeeper Marvin Hübel was hardly tested, adding to the team’s growing confidence.
For the fans, the victory was particularly sweet, especially since it set a club record for the most consecutive league wins, now standing at seven, making history for the club since comprehensive record-keeping began in 1981. The team’s solidified form shows their determination to keep chasing promotion and potentially clinch the direct ascent back to the Swiss Super League.
Even though Aarau enjoyed their record-setting win, they still find themselves one point behind the leaders, FC Thun. The Berner side also tasted success this weekend, edging out FC Wil with a score of 3-2, thereby keeping their slight advantage at the top of the Challenge League.
FC Aarau’s triumph also signified control over the pitch, as they adjusted well to the absence of Izer Aliu, who was sidelined due to injury. Coach Iacopetta made the unexpected tactical decision to place Sofian Bahloul, usually on the wing, back to the midfield. His ability to retain possession and facilitate play at the center of the field was commendable and influential to the game’s flow.
Vaduz, on the other hand, faced yet another challenge. Following their home defeat, their offensive tactics seemed to falter. Coach Marc Schneider’s strategy lacks the needed firepower to turn their fortunes around, as evidenced by the minimal chances created during the match. Now, with FC Vaduz sitting eleven points behind the second-place Aarau, their ambitious prospects look increasingly dim.
The match unfolded with palpable tension, especially as both sides had noteworthy injuries. The setback for Vaduz was compounded when David Acquah had to exit the game early due to injury, which added to their woes as they struggled to keep pace with Aarau’s spirited performance. Despite several substitutions, the home side could not find the cutting edge, finishing with only sporadic attempts on goal.
Throughout the match, FC Aarau displayed admirable discipline. Their defense was resolute, and they created multiple opportunities, though they missed several chances to extend their lead. Nikola Gjorgjev made one of the most notable attempts, breaking through on goal only to be diverted. Henri Koide, too, found himself unlucky, hitting the post and later being denied by Vaduz's keeper Leon Schaffran from close range.
For the FC Aarau supporters, the ambiance remained positive throughout the match, as they witnessed their team continue its excellent form and determination for promotion. The atmosphere, boosted by the successful run the club is on, ensured no disappointment was felt returning home, even with the club still pursuing to reclaim the top position again.