In a stunning display of skill and determination, Xherdan Shaqiri led FC Basel to the Swiss Super League title with a remarkable hat-trick in just nine minutes, propelling his team to a 5-2 victory over Lugano on Saturday, May 10, 2025. At 33 years old, Shaqiri proved that he still has the magic touch, helping Basel clinch the championship despite being reduced to ten men in the first half.
The match kicked off at Stadio di Cornaredo, where the home side Lugano took an early lead just two minutes into the game with a goal from Uran Bislimi, assisted by Mattia Zanotti. Basel, needing just three points to secure the title, found themselves in a precarious position early on. The situation worsened for the visitors when Albian Ajeti received a red card in the 42nd minute after a second yellow for an arm in the face of Albian Hajdari, leaving Basel to face the final 60 minutes one man down.
However, the second half saw a remarkable turnaround. Just three minutes after the restart, Shaqiri equalized for Basel with a well-placed shot from 16 meters, igniting the visitors' comeback. The Swiss star was just getting started; he quickly added two more goals to his tally within the next ten minutes, showcasing his incredible ability. His second goal came after Dominik Schmid won the ball from Zanotti near the edge of the penalty area, and Shaqiri unleashed a powerful shot from distance that found the back of the net. The third goal was a result of a swift counter-attack, with Shaqiri finishing off a play set up by Anton Kade.
As the clock ticked on, Leo Leroy added a fifth goal for Basel in the 60th minute, further solidifying their dominance in the match. Lugano managed to pull one back with a penalty from Anto Grgic in the 69th minute, but it was too little, too late. The final score stood at 5-2, sealing Basel's place at the top of the league with a twelve-point lead over their nearest rivals.
With this hat-trick, Shaqiri not only helped his team lift the trophy but also took his goal and assist tally for the season to an impressive 41 in just 35 games. His performance continues to draw comparisons to legendary players, as he chases Stéphane Chapuisat's record of 43 goal involvements in a single season, set back in 2003/04.
FC Basel's championship celebrations could commence as early as Sunday, depending on the outcome of the match between Servette and Young Boys, which could influence the title race. Basel's commanding performance against Lugano has left them poised to secure their 21st championship title, needing only a point from their remaining fixtures to confirm their place at the summit of Swiss football.
As the fans celebrated in the stands, the atmosphere was electric, with 5,318 spectators witnessing an unforgettable match. Despite the early setback and being a man down, Basel's resilience shone through, and the players' spirits remained high throughout the encounter.
Shaqiri's contributions to the team have been pivotal this season, as he continues to defy age and expectations. His experience and skill have been invaluable, especially in crucial moments like this match. "That was my toughest opponent," Shaqiri remarked, reflecting on the challenges faced during the game. His ability to rise to the occasion has not gone unnoticed, and he remains a fan favorite for his flair and passion on the pitch.
Looking ahead, Basel's next challenge will be to maintain their momentum as they prepare for the final rounds of the season. With just a few matches left, the team is focused on securing their championship title and potentially breaking records along the way. The excitement in Basel is palpable as fans eagerly anticipate the official confirmation of their league victory.
In conclusion, Xherdan Shaqiri's hat-trick has not only secured a vital win for Basel but has also solidified his status as one of the league's top players. As the team gears up for the final stretch of the season, all eyes will be on them to see if they can finish strong and etch their name in the history books once again.
