On February 26, 2025, FC Basel faced Etoile Carouge at the Stade de la Fontenette for the quarter-finals of the Swiss Cup, aiming to solidify their place among the tournament's elite. The stage was set for what many anticipated would be another routine outing for the Super League giants, but much to their surprise, the lower-ranked Challenge League club soared to new heights.
The underdogs, Etoile Carouge, were determined to prove their worth, reminiscent of their historic upset against Basel four years earlier. For much of the first half, they displayed remarkable tenacity and skill, testing Basel's defenses and forcing goalkeeper Mirko Salvi to make several impressive saves. Vincent Rüfli and Oscar Correia kept the pressure high, challenging Basel's defense with well-placed shots, yet the score remained barren at halftime.
Returning to the second half, Basel was clearly shaken. Their star player, Xherdan Shaqiri, had the chance to shift the momentum when he was awarded a penalty kick early on. Unfortunately for Basel, former teammate Signori Antonio dove successfully to thwart Shaqiri's attempt, leaving the crowd murmuring with disbelief.
Despite their early struggles, it seemed Carouge would capitalise on their momentary advantage. The breakthrough came at last when Oscar Correia unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box, successfully depositing the ball past Salvi's outstretched arm to give Carouge the lead at 1-0.
Carouge's supporters erupted, their voices echoing through the stadium, propelling their team closer to what would be deemed another miracle. They held the lead with confidence, pushing back hard against any opposing advances. But as time ticked away, the realization of potential victory began to dim, as Basel began to ramp up their efforts.
Then, just when it seemed Carouge was on the brink of achieving the impossible, the event unfurled dramatically. With only moments left, Gabriel Sigua equalised for Basel, steering the ball past Antonio after expertly redirecting Dominik Schmid's cross. The stadium momentarily hushed before erupting again, the tide of the game shifting alarmingly for Carouge.
Within just two short minutes, Kevin Carlos struck not once, but twice, each time taking advantage of defensive lapses from Carouge. The succession of goals rattled the home side, who had battled valiantly yet could not withstand the late-game onslaught, capitulating to Basel's late resurgence. Carlos's double sealed the deal with the final score garnering Basel the 3-1 victory.
FC Basel, the highest tier team and one of the tournament's favorites, rejoiced as they secured their place among the Cup’s final four contenders. Meanwhile, the Etoile Carouge team emerged from the pitch with their heads held high, fully knowing they had earned respect and admiration throughout the match. Adrian Ursea, coach of Carouge, aptly summed it up: “This match is just one step in our development, and we dream of qualification every time.”
Carouge’s performance was commendable and will be remembered by their fervent supporters. They created numerous opportunities and showcased grit and determination throughout the match. It was, as many described it, another chapter written within the annals of Cup history—filled with hope, ambition, and the spirit of sport.
What transpired on the field was not just about the game but the communal spirit—built on years leading to this moment, with Rose-tinted dreams shimmering for the club’s future. For Basel, their late-game heroics reaffirmed their status as one of the powerhouses of Swiss football, but they’re now left with the responsibility to go on and claim the Cup once again.
With many emotions swirling from this decisive match, it’s clear both teams made strides toward their respective goals and showcased the magic of the Swiss Cup. What lies next—only time will tell, as the semi-finals approach and dreams evolve between these engaged clubs.