Gabriel Sigua’s decisive strike earned Lausanne their first-ever victory over Italian opposition and secured a ninth-place finish in the UEFA Conference League league phase, as the Swiss side claimed European knockout football for the first time since 1982 with a 1–0 win over a subdued Fiorentina.

All five of Lausanne’s goals in the competition this season had come before half-time, so a flat, scoreless opening 45 minutes offered little encouragement for the home crowd. Even thick fog rolling into the Stade de la Tuilière failed to inject any drama, with genuine moments of excitement few and far between.

Lausanne nonetheless created the better of the limited chances. Sekou Fofana and Theo Bair both went close, though neither could provide the finishing touch. Bair’s clever backheel sent Fofana surging forward, but the full-back dragged his effort high and wide from a tight angle, while Bair later squandered the clearest opportunity with a tame finish from eight yards after meeting a cross from the right.

The hosts emerged with greater intent after the break and were rewarded just before the hour mark. Enzo Kana-Biyik danced his way to the byline before delivering a pinpoint cross to the back post, where Sigua arrived to head past Tommaso Martinelli and spark celebrations.

Fiorentina’s fragile confidence was again evident as Lausanne continued to threaten. Beyatt Lekweiry was allowed to burst unchallenged into the penalty area, only to be denied by an excellent outstretched save from Martinelli.

A late push from the visitors restored some pride, but further sharp saves from Lausanne goalkeeper Karlo Letica ensured Fiorentina slipped to another defeat. The loss condemned the Viola to a 16th-place finish in the league phase, while Lausanne celebrated a historic night and a place in the knockout rounds.