Monthey punish Sion U21 with late winner in Switzerland Division 2 League

Monthey secured a resilient 2-1 away win against FC Sion U21 in the Switzerland Division 2 League on October 10, 2026, taking advantage of a youthful Sion side that showed promise but lacked the cutting edge at the decisive moments. The match, which began at 23:00 local time, was decided late after an evenly contested opening hour.

Sion U21 entered the game looking to use their technical quality and quick combinations in midfield. Monthey, by contrast, were organised, physical and happy to play direct when necessary. That contrast in styles made for an engaging contest, and in the end, Monthey’s greater experience in key areas proved decisive.

Match overview

The first half was played at a good pace, with Sion U21 enjoying more of the ball but struggling to turn possession into clear chances. Their best early opportunity came from a set piece, when centre-back Noah Bonvin headed narrowly over the bar. Monthey responded with a warning shot of their own, forcing a smart low save from the Sion goalkeeper.

Monthey took the lead in the 31st minute. A long ball over the top caught the Sion defence square, and forward Lucas Aebischer ran through to finish calmly past the advancing goalkeeper. It was a simple but effective goal, and it gave the visitors a lead they protected until half-time.

Sion U21 came out with more urgency after the break and equalised in the 58th minute. A neat move down the left ended with a cut-back that was swept home by midfielder Evan Costa. At that point, the young hosts looked the more likely team to go on and win the game.

Key moments

• 31’ – Monthey goal: Lucas Aebischer latched onto a long ball and finished confidently.
• 58’ – Sion U21 equaliser: Evan Costa converted from close range after a flowing move.
• 77’ – Monthey winner: A corner was only partially cleared, and Julien Moret fired home from 12 yards.
• 90+3’ – Sion U21 chance: A late header drifted wide as Monthey held on.

The winning goal arrived in the 77th minute. Sion U21 failed to deal with a corner, and the loose ball fell to Julien Moret, who controlled it with his chest before volleying through a crowd of players. The goal was greeted with muted celebration from the away bench, but the relief was clear.

Tactical story and standout players

Sion U21 played with the confidence typical of a development side, rotating the ball patiently and using their full-backs high up the pitch. However, that adventure left space behind, and Monthey repeatedly targeted the channels. The visitors’ 4-4-2 shape was compact without the ball and direct with it, and their front two worked tirelessly to unsettle the young centre-backs.

For Sion U21, Evan Costa was the standout performer, driving forward from midfield and scoring the equaliser. Winger Malik Sarr also caused problems with his dribbling, but the final ball too often went astray. Monthey’s man of the match was Lucas Aebischer, whose movement and finishing gave his team a constant outlet. Goalkeeper Théo Grand also made two important saves late on.

Standings and season impact

The victory gives Monthey an important boost in the Switzerland Division 2 League table, moving them into a more comfortable position and extending their recent run of strong away form. For FC Sion U21, the result is a learning experience. Their performances have been competitive, but converting possession into points remains the challenge for a squad still finding its way in senior football.

Monthey’s ability to win on the road against technically gifted opposition could be a sign of their maturity this season. They defended their box well in the final 15 minutes and showed game management that is often missing at this level. Sion U21, meanwhile, will take encouragement from their second-half response, but the late concession will sting. The rematch later in the campaign now carries extra significance in the head-to-head record.