FC Lausanne-Sport can finally breathe a sigh of relief after a decisive victory in the Lausanne derby against Stade-Lausanne-Ouchy on Saturday. The 4-0 triumph, highlighted by a double from Senegalese striker Mamadou Kaly Sène, ensures their survival in the Swiss Super League for another season.
Returning to the top tier of Swiss football at the end of last season, Lausanne-Sport faced numerous challenges to secure their place. Before the penultimate match of the season, they were just four points clear of the relegation play-off spot held by Grasshopper.
The team had endured a difficult period, failing to secure a win in their previous four matches (three defeats and one draw). However, this vital victory changed their fortunes dramatically.
Kaly Sène’s Heroics
The comprehensive win against already-relegated Stade-Lausanne-Ouchy was crucial. This result not only guaranteed Lausanne-Sport’s safety but also set the stage for their final match against Grasshopper.
Central to this victory was Mamadou Kaly Sène, whose two first-half goals broke his eight-match goalless streak. Reflecting on his performance, Sène expressed his satisfaction and resilience: “We wanted to score as early as possible to make the match easier.
I kept faith in myself. If I give up from the start, it becomes more difficult,” the former FC Basel player told Blick.
Despite the challenges he faced this season, including missed opportunities, Sène emphasized the importance of the team’s collective effort.
“Today I had the chance to score two easy goals. I missed some too, but that’s not the important thing; the important thing is in the collective,” he noted.
A Season of Struggles and Triumphs
Mamadou Kaly Sène has been a pivotal figure for Lausanne-Sport despite a season marred by personal and team struggles. “It hits my ego a little when I miss an opportunity, but I am a very collective attacker.
I think of the team first. If I don’t score, I try to compensate defensively with the runs I make, which is what the coach asks of me. I think I did it well this season,” Sène said.
With 12 goals to his name, Sène remains focused on finishing the season strong and possibly becoming the top scorer in the Swiss Championship, currently led by Kevin Omoruy with 14 goals.
Confidence and Support
Sène also highlighted the unwavering support from his coach, Ludovic Magnin, throughout the season. “The coach has always trusted me since the start of the championship. I try to give it back to him on the field.
I try to give everything for the team, for him. And to win as many matches as possible, because it hasn’t always been easy.
But I always had the support of the coach, the staff, the president. This is something that is very important for an attacker,” he added.
As Lausanne-Sport prepares for their final match of the season, Sène’s determination and the team’s collective spirit will be crucial.
They aim to finish the season on a high note, having shown resilience and character throughout a tumultuous campaign.
