In a thrilling encounter at the Stockhorn-Arena, FC Thun emerged victorious against Xamax, clinching a 2:1 win on March 28, 2025. This triumph not only secured three vital points but also reinstated Thun at the top of the Challenge League table, just nine rounds before the end of the season.
The match began with both teams showcasing their tactical prowess, but it was FC Thun who struck first. Leonardo Bertone, a standout player for the evening, delivered a sensational free-kick from approximately 18 meters just before halftime, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. His goal was a testament to his skill and precision, as he curled the ball past the Xamax goalkeeper Edin Omeragic, putting Thun ahead 1:0 at the break.
After the halftime interval, the momentum seemed to shift slightly. FC Thun had a golden opportunity to double their lead when Christopher Ibayi was awarded a penalty. However, the moment turned sour for Thun fans as Ibayi's shot was saved brilliantly by Omeragic, keeping Xamax in the contest. The miss would prove to be a pivotal moment in the match.
Despite the setback, FC Thun continued to press forward, determined to secure the victory. Their persistence paid off when Layton Stewart, who had been substituted in earlier in the match, found the back of the net around ten minutes before full-time. Stewart's goal, which came from a well-placed shot inside the box, sent the Stockhorn-Arena into raptures as Thun extended their lead to 2:0.
However, the drama was far from over. In the dying moments of the match, Xamax launched a desperate counterattack that nearly resulted in an equalizer. In stoppage time, they hit the crossbar, and the ball bounced perilously close to the goal line, but fortune favored Thun as the ball did not cross into the net. This near-miss highlighted the tension and unpredictability of the match, showcasing the resilience of both teams.
With the final whistle, FC Thun celebrated a hard-fought 2:1 victory. The result not only marked an important win for Thun but also allowed them to leapfrog Aarau, who could only manage a disappointing 2:2 draw against Etoile Carouge after leading 2:0 earlier in their match. This series of results means that Thun now sits atop the league, a position they will fiercely defend as they approach the season's climax.
The atmosphere in the Stockhorn-Arena was electric, with fans showering their team with praise and support. "It feels like a crucial moment in the fight for promotion," said one ecstatic supporter. Coach Mauro Lustrinelli expressed his pride in the team's performance, acknowledging the challenges faced during the match but emphasizing the importance of resilience and teamwork.
As the league heads into the final stretch, FC Thun's ability to handle pressure will be tested. The team's next few matches will be critical in determining their fate in the Challenge League. With the title race heating up, every point will count, and Thun will be eager to maintain their lead.
In conclusion, FC Thun's victory against Xamax not only showcased their attacking prowess but also highlighted their ability to withstand late-game pressure. As they prepare for the upcoming fixtures, the team and its supporters will be hoping for more performances like this one, as they aim for a successful end to the season and a return to the top flight of Swiss football.
