After two victories in Tourbillon against YB and Bellinzona, FC Sion travel to Neuchâtel on Friday as part of matchday 25 of the Challenge League. A French-speaking derby on the agenda at La Maladière!
The context
FC Sion avoided the trap posed by AC Bellinzona after the euphoria of the Swiss Cup win over YB. The Valais outfit beat the Ticino side 3-0 on Sunday to maintain their seven-point lead over Thun in the Challenge League standings.
Les Sédunois are staying on course with a string of victories at the start of the year. Didier Tholot's men have won seven of their seven games in all competitions in 2024. With 55 points, FC Sion are not only top of the table, but also the best attack (49 goals scored) and the best defence (16 goals conceded) in the league.
Their opponents
Fifth in the Challenge League standings, Xamax alternate between good and less good results. In the last five games, the Neuchâtel outfit have won two matches, including a precious one against FC Sion in Thun. Xamax won 4-0 at La Maladière at the end of February to move seven points clear of second-placed Bern.
With 37 goals scored, Neuchâtel Xamax remain the fourth-best attacking force in the league behind Vaduz, Thun and Sion. Coached by Uli Forte, however, the "Red and Blacks" are coming off a 2-0 defeat by FC Aarau at the Brügglifeld.
The stakes
Week after week, the stakes remain the same. FC Sion must keep up the momentum and maintain their solid seven-point lead over FC Thun. The Bernese and the Valaisans will meet a week later in Tourbillon. For their part, the Neuchâtel side would like to repeat their performance against Thun and knock off another member of the top 3. With a win, Xamax could move closer to third place, held by FC Aarau.
Latest fixtures
29 September 2023 Xamax - Sion 0-3
27 October 2023 Sion - Xamax 1-0
Latest news
Didier Tholot should have his full squad available for this derby. Only Itaitinga is currently expected to be injured. Lavanchy and Berdayes could be suspended if they receive a caution. The same applies to Aliu, Ben Seghir, Hammerich, Nsakala, Ramizi and Winkler in the Xamax ranks.