Thun dodges further embarrassment but loses miracle in Europa Playoffs

FC Thun drew 2-2 with Lech Posen in the second leg of the Europa League Playoffs, confirming that the Swiss champion will compete in the Conference League after a 0-7 defeat in the first leg.

First leg sets the tone

The 0-7 loss in the first leg made it clear that the playoff duel in the Europa‑League qualification was already decided, even for the most optimistic Thun fans.

FC Lugano secured a place in the Conference League group stage, while St. Gallen and FC Sion were eliminated from the competition.

Second‑leg adjustments and goals

Coach Gian‑Luca Privitelli responded by reshuffling his starting lineup, introducing several new positions.

Replacement goalkeeper Tim Spycher took the gloves, 20‑year‑old Louis Passavant started in central defence for the first time, and 19‑year‑old Simon Lengen was handed a striker’s role.

Five minutes before Lengen’s involvement, Robert Gumny gave Lech Posen the lead. Lengen then equalised after 22 minutes, heading a short‑range cross into the net for a 1‑1 scoreline.

Furkan Dursun, who had supplied the assist for the earlier goal, scored in the 43rd minute to put the Swiss champion ahead 2‑1.

The lead lasted until the 68th minute, when substitute Patrik Walemark struck from the edge of the penalty area to level the match at 2‑2.

Both sides then refrained from taking further risks, and the overall result confirmed Lech Posen’s place in the Europa League and Thun’s drop to the Conference League.

Thun will learn its Conference League group opponents on Friday, before returning to the Super League, where it faces FC St. Gallen away on Sunday.