In a thrilling match, Samuel Essende scored the winning goal for BSC Young Boys in their 3-2 victory over Lucerne. The Congolese striker found the net in the 92nd minute, securing a precious win for his team in the 13th round of the Swiss Super League. Christian Fassnacht had given Young Boys an early lead, but Lucerne equalized just before halftime through Di Giusto's penalty.
The match took another turn when Guirassy restored Young Boys' lead in the 64th minute, only for Lewin Winkler to level the score for Lucerne at 82 minutes. As the game seemed headed for a draw, Essende intervened in stoppage time. He was set up by Alan Virginius and slotted home the winning goal, marking his 15th league goal in 13 appearances this season.
Essende's late winner confirmed his impressive form this season, maintaining him at the top of the Swiss Super League's goal-scoring chart. A few days prior, he had scored a brace against FC Zurich, although Young Boys lost 5-3. His consistent goal-scoring has made him one of the most decisive players in the Swiss championship.
Despite his remarkable club form, Essende was not included in the 26-man squad for the Democratic Republic of Congo's national team, the Léopards, for their November international break and CAN 2027 qualifying matches against Sierra Leone. This omission has raised questions, given Essende's status as the top Congolese goal-scorer abroad this season.
Sébastien Desabre, the Léopards' coach, cited strong competition in the attacking department and emphasized that players must seize their opportunities when called up. Essende has scored only one goal in 12 appearances for the national team, which may have contributed to Desabre's decision. Fans are left wondering how a player so prolific in club football can be so subdued in international colors.
There have been speculations about a supposed "mystic block" affecting Essende, allegedly related to a teammate, but no verified information supports this claim. For now, the sporting explanation provided by the coaching staff stands: Essende's previous performances did not warrant a call-up. As long as he continues to score regularly, however, the Léopards may not be able to ignore him indefinitely.
Essende's performance has garnered attention, and his ability to make a difference in crucial moments has been highlighted. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether he will be given another chance to prove himself for the Léopards. His club form suggests he has the potential to be a key player for his country, and fans will be watching closely for any future developments.
Key points
- Essende's 15th league goal in 13 appearances keeps him top of the Swiss Super League goal-scoring chart.
