FC Lugano beats FC Basel 3:1 and sees a ray of hope in the midst of Tessinian darkness. After disappointing performances, the Tessinians show against the enigmatic champion what they are capable of. Player Renato Steffen holds his child in his arms after the match and says to the television stations: «I have always given the answer on the pitch. I probably need a certain amount of negativity.» FC Lugano was considered a «model club» at the beginning of the year, finishing fourth, third, and second from 2022 to 2024, and reaching the cup final for the third time in a row in 2024, and advancing to the round of 16 in the Conference League. But the beautiful story with the upward trend becomes a «horror movie». 2025 becomes the year of free fall. Out in the cup quarterfinals against the lower-league club FC Biel, hardly any wins for months, fifth place in the table, recently shocking moments in the championship. FC Lugano travels much more than the competition, which the club management cites as an excuse for the poor season. In January, the Tessinians extended two important contracts. Coach Mattia Croci-Torti received a contract until 2028. Former Bundesliga player Renato Steffen was tied until 2028. The success in the heat against the champion works like a ray of hope in the midst of Tessinian darkness. FC Lugano closes the counter with a 3:1 score in the extra time against the abandoned goal of FC Basel and can indulge in collective jubilation. Unexpected celebration. Player Renato Steffen opens a valve and walks wordlessly past the media representatives in the direction of the cabin.