Young Boys Bern took a significant step toward securing UEFA Champions League qualification with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lucerne, thanks in part to a standout performance from Algerian full-back Jaouen Hadjam.
With only two matches remaining in the Swiss Super League season, the reigning champions were under pressure to keep pace with second-placed Servette Geneva.
Sitting two points adrift heading into the weekend, Young Boys knew that anything less than a win could deal a heavy blow to their hopes of returning to Europe’s premier club competition.
Facing a Lucerne side also vying for a top-three finish, the match proved to be a tense and closely contested affair at the Wankdorf Stadium.
Hadjam, deployed once again on the left despite being a natural right-back, played a crucial role in unlocking the opposition defence.
The breakthrough came shortly before the interval. In the 41st minute, Hadjam surged forward down the flank and delivered a pinpoint pass into the area, picking out Gambian striker Ebrima Colley.
With his back to goal, Colley turned sharply and slotted home to put the hosts 1–0 up, capping a fluid attacking move sparked by Hadjam’s vision and precision.
The second half brought further involvement from the Algerian international, though not without controversy. An apparent handball in the penalty area by Hadjam went unpunished, with the referee waving away Lucerne appeals.
Moments later, Hadjam whipped in another dangerous cross that narrowly missed being converted by a teammate.
Lucerne eventually pulled level, taking advantage of a lapse in concentration from the Young Boys’ defence. But the hosts refused to relent and continued pressing for a late winner.
Their persistence was rewarded in dramatic fashion during stoppage time, as Cedric Itten pounced on a loose ball in the box to fire home the decisive goal in the 91st minute.
The result moves Young Boys to 57 points, just two behind Servette in second place. With only two rounds of fixtures remaining, the race for Champions League qualification is set to go down to the wire.
The top two finishers in the Swiss Super League earn a place in the Champions League qualifiers, while third place enters the UEFA Europa League.
Hadjam’s influence has been increasingly evident in recent weeks, and his versatility on either flank has proven invaluable for manager Raphaël Wicky.
Despite a gruelling season that included a demanding Champions League group stage campaign, Young Boys appear to be finding their rhythm at the right time.
The Bern-based club, who have dominated Swiss football in recent years, now have a golden opportunity to reclaim their place on the European stage.
With form and confidence on their side, the final matches of the season promise high drama and high stakes.
Victory over Lucerne, inspired by Hadjam’s dynamic display, has breathed fresh life into Young Boys’ Champions League ambitions — and set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the Super League campaign.
