Former Liverpool player Xherdan Shaqiri accomplished a notable achievement with his goal for Switzerland in their 1-1 draw against Andy Robertson's Scotland at Euro 2024.
Scotland, needing at least a point to have a realistic chance of advancing through the group, started Wednesday night's match determined to make a statement.
Only 13 minutes in, Steve Clarke's team converted their initial burst of energy into a goal, following a rapid counter-attack that culminated in Scott McTominay scoring from Callum McGregor's setup.
The goal came with a stroke of luck, as McTominay's effort was deflected past the goalkeeper by Fabian Schar, who inadvertently directed the ball into his own net.
However, the lead lasted just 13 minutes before former Liverpool player Shaqiri equalized for Switzerland with a spectacular first-time shot from outside the penalty area.
Despite not being in the starting lineup for their previous game, Shaqiri confidently bent the ball into the top corner right after seizing on Anthony Ralston’s errant back pass.
This goal has extended his record of scoring in each of the last six major tournaments he has participated in since Euro 2016 in France.
Cristiano Ronaldo might not be the only player to achieve this feat by the end of Euro 2024. If he scores this summer, he will have found the net in 11 consecutive tournaments since 2004.
Xherdan Shaqiri's goal in the first half against Scotland marked his 32nd goal in 124 appearances for Switzerland, making him the nation's second-most capped player, just three behind the current captain, Granit Xhaka.
Despite Shaqiri's goal, the Swiss were unable to capitalize further, and with both teams missing significant opportunities in the second half, the game concluded in a 1-1 draw.
Liverpool's Robertson had a notable performance, constantly active on the left flank. His crosses posed a significant threat for Scotland, and he commended his team's assertiveness post-match.
Speaking on BBC One, he reflected, “It was much more like us, being assertive from the start. Both sides had their moments, and it was a well-fought match between two strong teams.
“That performance was more characteristic of us. We're happier with how we played; we might have scored, but they could likely say the same.
“We'll accept the draw and carry that momentum into the final game, which is all we can hope for.”
Scotland is now gearing up for a crucial encounter with Dominik Szoboszlai's Hungarian squad. Securing three points is essential for them to advance as one of the third-place teams.
