Basel is facing Zurich Challenge in Swiss derby

On February 3, 2025By Littum

The Swiss Super League will return with excitement this week as FC Zurich and FC Basel are preparing to fight against the stadium Letzigrund on Sunday, February 2, 2025. This engaging showdown, starting at 1 p.m. 16:30, not only holds excitement for fans, but also carries considerable weight in the championship race as both teams are fighting for valuable points.

FC Basel leads to Zurich with confidence, strengthened by their current form, which has seen them secure 34 points, which places them fixed within the title race. The team has demonstrated excellent offensive skill after scoring more goals this season than they did throughout the previous campaign. Coach Fabio Celestini has orchestrated this resurgence, with star players such as Xherdan Shaqiri, Kevin Carlos and Benie Traore, contributing directly to 24 of Basel’s last 31 goals.

On the flip side, FC Zurich has faced his challenges recently. Under the guidance of coach Ricardo Moniz, the team must jump back after their disappointing 3-1 loss against Lucerne. Despite securing 30 points from 20 games so far, they find themselves sixth on the league table, only four points behind Basel. In particular, Zurich has not been able to defeat Basel since August 2022, struggling to break what has now become a strip of seven matches without victory, consisting of two wins and five draws.

Moniz’s concerns are undoubtedly significant this week. The Zurich team deals with damage to the most important defenders and lets him find creative solutions within the remaining list. Interestingly, Lindit Kamberi, who previously scored this season, was sent off last week, and Mirlind Kryeziu, another rising star, sidelines due to muscle prices and his recent statement to avoid extension of the contract. Moniz said, “We have to improvise, but we always have solutions,” confirms his confidence in the depth of the team.

Historical data tells the story of FC Basel’s superiority with 54 wins out of 99 previous meetings. FC Zurich’s record has 20 wins against Basel, and 25 games ended up in a draw. Looking back, Basel has lost only one of their last five outdoor matches since October, indicating strong form as they approach Derby.

This weekend promises to be electrifying as both sides are fighting for league positions and the early spring hawks. How will Zurich’s injuries affect their game plan? Will Basel continue to take advantage of their scoring potential? The answer lies on the field where both teams’ capabilities will be tested.