Geneva-based goalkeeper Anthony Racioppi is playing a key role in FC Sion’s push for a top-half finish in the Swiss Super League. While he only had one save to make during Saturday’s match against Servette, the shot-stopper demonstrated a remarkable ability to distribute the ball, completing 42 of 48 attempted passes.
Racioppi’s passing accuracy was particularly impressive in his own half (38/38) and with long balls (8/14). He effectively functioned as a quarterback, helping his team maintain possession and build attacks from the back. The increasing emphasis on goalkeepers’ distribution skills reflects a broader trend in modern soccer, where ball-playing ability is highly valued.
“I did have some work to do, he smiled. A lot with my feet, that’s true. A goalkeeper must always remain focused for 90 minutes.” The match wasn’t without its distractions, as flares and artificial smoke created a hazy atmosphere in the stands. “I’m focused on my game and I try to stay as concentrated as possible,” he added.
30 Goals Conceded in 27 Matches
FC Sion’s potential qualification for the championship round and a possible European spot is in part due to Racioppi’s consistent performances. He has kept 10 clean sheets in 27 Super League matches this season, conceding just 30 goals. Notably, no agency photos of Racioppi were available from Saturday’s game.
Kadile, rare satisfaction grenat
Junior Kadile, who recently arrived from the Dutch second division, was a rare bright spot for Servette during Saturday’s match. However, his team failed to find the back of the net. “On a match like this, I think I’ll just remember the positive: we didn’t lose, he explained. We created opportunities, we could have converted them, especially those that came from my side. We need to look at the next match at Winterthur. It came down to details against Sion, like when I was tackled at the last moment. Well, we’re moving on and looking to the future.”
“I think we were above Servette,” Racioppi stated. “We had more clear chances… It didn’t happen tonight, it will happen soon. We worked well with the defenders and the whole team to get the ball out.” Servette’s struggles at home are notable, with eight consecutive Super League matches without a win (five draws and three defeats) – the longest streak in the club’s history.
“I think we were above Servette”
The team has only won twice in sixteen matches since November 1st, a performance level indicative of a relegation battle.
“When you can’t grab all three points, you settle for a draw. Plus, we didn’t concede a goal, he added. There’s still a lot of positive in this match. I think we were above Servette. We had more clear chances… It didn’t happen tonight, it will happen soon. We worked well with the defenders and the whole team to get the ball out.”
Robin Carrel (rca) is a sports journalist at 20 minutes, where he has worked since 2011. His favorite sports are football and cycling, but he prefers the field of discovery.
