Xherdan Shaqiri’s return to FC Basel has been a game-changer as they secured the Swiss league title on Sunday, despite not playing. Basel’s second-place rivals, Servette, were held to a 0-0 draw at home against third-placed Young Boys, leaving Basel with an uncatchable 11-point lead with three rounds remaining.
The 33-year-old Shaqiri, who rejoined Basel in August after a less-than-stellar stint at Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire, has played a key role in their title charge. He scored a remarkable hat-trick in just 10 minutes during Basel’s 5-2 victory over Lugano last Saturday, even after the team was reduced to 10 men.
Shaqiri Sparks FC Basel’s Title Rush
Shaqiri’s return has injected life into FC Basel’s campaign, which saw them win seven consecutive matches, scoring five goals in each of their last three games. Shaqiri himself contributed 18 goals and 20 assists in the league, with a standout performance that included nine goals and seven assists during their winning streak.
This marks Shaqiri’s fourth league title with FC Basel, having won his first three titles as a teenager in 2010. With his contributions, Basel have reclaimed dominance after their last league win in 2017.
Champions League Qualification for Basel
With their Swiss league title in hand, Basel will enter the Champions League qualifying rounds in August. Their strong finish to the season secured them a spot in the prestigious tournament, while the Swiss league runner-up will also have to battle through qualifying rounds to reach the group stages.
Shaqiri’s resurgence and Basel’s late-season surge under coach Fabio Celestini, who took over in October 2023, has brought the club back to the top of Swiss football.
