In stoppage time, Stade-Lausanne-Ouchy actually had a sniff of an equalizer in Wankdorf in Bern. The newcomer, who became more and more confident as the game progressed, dared to attack again. The ball flipped in the penalty area to Alban Ajdini, who took the shot – and saw his shot hiss onto the post. The follow-up shot bounced to Elies Mahmoud, but he was denied by David von Ballmoos from close range.
The YB goalie was surprising and was one of 7 players new to the starting line-up. Regular goalkeeper Anthony Racioppi was given a pause for thought by coach Raphael Wicky after his recent excellent performances. Overall, Von Ballmoos didn’t have many opportunities to distinguish himself. With his save at the end he still saved the champions’ victory.
Janko flies late
At the time of SLO’s late rally, the hosts were outnumbered. In the 87th minute, Saidy Janko was responsible for a rough start, he hit his opponent squarely in the calf and was sent off the pitch with a straight red card. Bitter for the full-back, who made his first starting eleven in the Super League since the end of September.
Even before the numerical superiority, the guests had had bad luck with aluminum. The active Mahmoud shot from the corner of the penalty area in the 54th minute. However, his shot hit the crossbar.
Nsame saves YB
The fact that YB still managed to get the budgeted 3 points was mainly due to Jean-Pierre Nsame. With a bit of luck, the striker headed a cross from Ulisses Garcia via the post in the 76th minute for the only goal of the evening.
Even in the uneventful first half, the Cameroonian was responsible for the only highlight. After being held back in the penalty area, he went to the penalty spot himself. He placed his shot in the middle – but SLO keeper Dany Da Silva reacted strongly and saved the penalty. Nothing new for Nsame: He has missed every third of his Super League penalties so far (12 goals/6 missed).
Despite the mixed performance, the unusually few fans in Wankdorf in Bern are likely to return home satisfied. Because thanks to the 3 points, YB takes over the leadership throne of the Super League.
Legend:
Unusually empty stands
In Wankdorf.
SRF
This is how it goes
Super League football is back on the weekend. YB will face St. Gallen in the top battle on Saturday from 6:00 p.m. Stade-Lausanne-Ouchy has to face Yverdon away in the promotion duel on Sunday.