FC Basel advanced to the quarterfinals after a dramatic penalty shootout against Sion, following a 2:2 draw in regular and extra time. Despite a strong start with a goal from Shaqiri, Basel struggled defensively, allowing Sion to score twice. A late equalizer from Anton Kade sent the match into penalties, where Basel’s goalkeeper Marwin Hitz made two crucial saves. Meanwhile, Young Boys secured a narrow victory over Schaffhausen, and FC Lugano scored twice late in their match against Yverdon to maintain their strong cup form.
FC Basel Triumphs in Thrilling Penalty Shootout
In an exhilarating cup clash, FC Basel and Sion battled it out to a 2:2 draw after 120 intense minutes. Ultimately, Basel showcased their composure during the penalty shootout, sealing their advancement to the quarterfinals. While every player from the home side found the net, goalkeeper Marwin Hitz made a remarkable contribution by saving two penalties from the visitors, propelling his team forward.
Basel’s Strong Start Meets Unexpected Challenges
Prior to the match, FC Basel appeared to have the upper hand, bolstered by their impressive form. As the leaders of the Super League, they had claimed victory in six out of their last eight outings, suffering only one defeat. In contrast, FC Sion arrived as a struggling side, having achieved just two league wins on the road this season and failing to secure a victory in Basel for over nine years.
Basel’s early advantage came in the fifth minute when a stunning free kick from former Swiss international Shaqiri found the back of the net, leaving goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu powerless. However, despite their lead, Basel’s performance was marred by disorganization, leading to costly turnovers that allowed Sion to capitalize on counterattacks. Two goals conceded within eight minutes of the first half highlighted these vulnerabilities, both orchestrated by central defender Nicolas Vouilloz and finished by Théo Bouchlarhem.
It wasn’t until the dying moments of the match that Basel managed to penetrate Sion’s defense again. A spectacular long-range effort from substitute Anton Kade in the 86th minute equalized the score and sent the match into extra time, keeping Basel’s hopes alive.
YB Moves Forward Despite Lackluster Performance
Young Boys (YB) celebrated a crucial victory during their away match in Schaffhausen, despite not being at their best against a financially struggling opponent from the Challenge League. With just over 4,500 fans in attendance, the match turned in YB’s favor after a goal from Sandro Lauper, following a previous attempt from Cedric Itten that hit the crossbar.
YB’s goalkeeper Marvin Keller played a pivotal role, delivering impressive saves, especially following the red card issued to captain Mohamed Ali Camara in the 67th minute. Fortunately for YB, the dismissal of Schaffhausen players Marc Giger and Ben Schläppi shortly afterward leveled the playing field, ensuring YB’s path to victory remained unimpeded.
This win marked a significant milestone for Joël Magnin’s squad, as they achieved back-to-back national victories for the first time this season, having previously triumphed over St. Gallen just days before.
Lugano’s Late Goals Secure Solid Performance
FC Lugano, known for their cup expertise with three consecutive final appearances, had to wait until the final quarter of the match to break the deadlock against Yverdon. Mahmoud, just five minutes after being substituted in, deflected a cross from Mattia Zanotti into the net to take the lead. Zanotti would soon follow up with a solo effort, extending the lead to 2:0.
Prior to Lugano’s breakthrough, Yverdon had their chances, including a close attempt from Mauro Rodrigues that struck the post in the 50th minute. However, Lugano, sitting twelve points ahead of their opponents in the Super League, displayed their superior quality in the closing stages, extending their unbeaten run to 18 knockout rounds of the cup, excluding finals.