Tim Wigmore
Updated on: October 7, 2024 11:41 pm GMT
In a historic moment for international football, San Marino, ranked 210th in the FIFA world rankings, secured their first competitive win in 20 years by defeating Liechtenstein 1-0 in the UEFA Nations League. This long-awaited victory, which came on Thursday, ended a winless streak that lasted 140 games, dating back to their last triumph in 2004 against the same team. The victory marks only the second competitive win in San Marino’s history.
Decisive Goal by Sensoli
The lone goal of the match was scored by 19-year-old Nicko Sensoli, who plays for a club in Italy’s fourth tier. The pivotal moment occurred in the 53rd minute when Sensoli lobbed the ball over Liechtenstein goalkeeper Benjamin Büchel, igniting celebrations among the San Marino players and supporters alike. Sensoli, who was only a year old when San Marino last won, exemplified the potential of young talent in a team that has faced numerous challenges over the years.
Historic Context
San Marino’s victory not only represents a remarkable achievement for the team but also underscores the evolution of their performance in recent matches. The team had recorded 196 losses out of 206 fixtures before this match, including a devastating 10-0 defeat to England in a World Cup qualifier in November 2021. Despite this, San Marino demonstrated signs of improvement, scoring their first competitive goal in two years against Denmark in a Euro 2024 qualifier last October, and holding Caribbean side Saint Kitts and Nevis to a 0-0 draw in March.
The Journey of an Underdog
San Marino’s football journey is marked by hardship and resilience. The tiny nation, surrounded by Italy and boasting a population of just 33,000, has often been overshadowed in the footballing world. Covering only 61 square kilometers—approximately half the size of Manchester—the country’s limited resources and lesser-known status have long contributed to its struggles on the international stage. With a history of facing off against more prominent teams, the match against Liechtenstein symbolized a turning point that the team and its supporters had long awaited.
Match Overview
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| San Marino | 1 |
| Liechtenstein | 0 |
The match saw San Marino employ a resolute defensive strategy to protect their lead after scoring, showcasing their commitment to maintaining the historic result. They faced pressure from Liechtenstein’s attempts to equalize but managed to deny them success.
A Glimpse into Future Matches
San Marino’s victory has reignited optimism among their players and supporters for upcoming matches in the UEFA Nations League. They now aim to build on this historic win to improve their competitive edge and secure further success in the realms of international football. Manager Roberto Cevoli has expressed hope for continued growth, emphasizing a “dream with no limits” approach for his squad as they seek to make their mark on the sport.
Conclusion and Significance
The importance of San Marino’s win transcends mere statistics; it represents perseverance and hope for a team often labeled as the world’s lowest ranked. By scoring their first competitive win after two decades, San Marino has not only given its fans a moment of joy but also positioned itself as an example that underdogs in any sport can aspire to reshape their narrative. As they prepare for future challenges, the nation’s football community is looking ahead with renewed excitement.
This win could be an important story in San Marino’s football history. It shows how hard work and never giving up can inspire young athletes, not just in San Marino but everywhere.
