2' min
Monday, November 18, will go down in the history of the Republic of San Marino. At the Rheinpark Stadion in Vaduz, San Marino achieved a remarkable feat, securing promotion to League C of the Nations League with a 3-1 victory over Liechtenstein. This extraordinary result crowned a campaign that allowed the team, led by Roberto Cevoli—former coach of Renate and Novara—to rewrite several records.
San Marino earned its first-ever away victory and, for the first time in its history, scored three goals in a single official match. Additionally, the team avoided finishing last in its group and was crowned champion of its Nations League group. Supported by a small but passionate group of fans who traveled from the Republic of San Marino, the players approached the game with determination and courage. In the stands, previously known for ironic banners like the infamous "Mai 'na gioia" (Never a joy), chants of "Campeones, campeones, olé olé olé" rang out, celebrating a historic moment for San Marino football.
The victory, achieved with character and unprecedented offensive sharpness, sparked celebrations at the final whistle. Players and fans embraced on the sidelines, while head coach Roberto Cevoli, visibly emotional, could not hold back tears, aware of the significance of the achievement. This marks only the third win in 210 official matches for the national team—all against Liechtenstein—but it is undoubtedly the most significant, as it is also the first secured on foreign soil.
San Marino's promotion stands out as one of the most captivating stories of this Nations League edition. The small nation has shown that with commitment and perseverance, even the most evident limitations can be overcome, delivering football a tale of passion and heart. For the fans, this night will forever be etched as the sweetest of victories.
The Nations League offered other intriguing clashes as well. Kosovo defeated Lithuania 1-0, while Romania overwhelmed Cyprus with a decisive 4-1 victory. In League C Group 3, Bulgaria and Belarus drew 1-1, as did Luxembourg and Northern Ireland in a 2-2 tie. Spain, already assured of topping their group, wrapped up with a 3-2 win over Switzerland, while Serbia and Denmark played out a goalless draw. Other standout results included Scotland’s 2-1 win over Poland and a 1-1 draw between Croatia and Portugal.
