Mamadou Kaly Sène continued his blistering start to the season on Thursday, scoring once more to help FC Lausanne-Sport secure a 3-1 victory over FC Astana in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League third-round tie.
Peter Zeidler’s side, eager to give themselves breathing space before next week’s demanding trip to Kazakhstan, delivered a confident attacking display.
The Swiss outfit struck first in the 24th minute when Jamie Roche capitalised on a flowing move to give the hosts an early lead.
Sène, who has been in scintillating form with four goals in his first four matches this campaign, doubled the advantage just before the break.
The 24-year-old Senegalese forward latched onto a well-timed pass and finished clinically in the 42nd minute, underlining why he has become the focal point of Lausanne’s early-season success.
After the interval, Lausanne maintained their grip on the match and further strengthened their position in the 72nd minute.
Alban Ajdini capped off another incisive attack by slotting home the third goal, sending the home fans into celebration and leaving Astana with an uphill battle.
The visitors, however, managed to keep their hopes alive with a late reply.
In the 90th minute, Basic found the net to make it 3-1, ensuring the Kazakh champions take a valuable away goal back to Astana.
Despite conceding late, Lausanne will travel to Kazakhstan next week with a two-goal advantage and the confidence of having outplayed their opponents for much of the evening.
The Swiss club will, however, be mindful of Astana’s home form and the challenge of a long away trip in European competition.
Sène’s continued scoring streak will be a major source of encouragement for Zeidler, whose side appear well-balanced in attack and disciplined in defence.
💙 𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗘𝗘𝗘𝗘𝗘𝗘𝗭 𝗟𝗔𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘 🤍
Victoire solide du LS devant son public avant le retour décisif la semaine prochaine au Kazakhstan 🔥
🔜 Dimanche, place au championnat avec la réception du FC Zurich.#allezlausanne #pournoscouleurs pic.twitter.com/zP0vdlCD43
— FC Lausanne-Sport (@lausanne_sport) August 7, 2025
The forward’s sharpness in front of goal has not only boosted Lausanne’s ambitions in Europe but also cemented his status as one of the standout performers in the early stages of the season.
With the return leg looming, Lausanne’s mission will be to maintain their composure and convert their advantage into progression.
Astana, meanwhile, will draw on their European pedigree to attempt a comeback on home soil, setting the stage for a decisive and potentially tense second encounter.
