Former Stoke City forward Xherdan Shaqiri scored a remarkable goal against Angus Gunn at Euro 2024, propelling Switzerland into the knock-out stages. This stunning strike secured a draw with Scotland, ensuring Switzerland’s progression and marking a significant personal achievement for Shaqiri.
In an impressive feat, Shaqiri became the first European to score in each of the last six major tournaments, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo. The goal came when Shaqiri capitalized on a loose back pass from Anthony Ralston, curling a shot from just outside the box past former Stoke City teammate Angus Gunn.
This goal continues Shaqiri’s streak of scoring in the last three World Cups and three European Championships. Currently playing for Chicago Fire, the 32-year-old also achieved the distinction of being the first player to score in a European Championship match while playing for a team based in North or South America. His previous notable goals include a hat-trick against Honduras in the 2014 World Cup, a scissor kick against Poland at Euro 2016 while at Stoke, a dramatic winner against Serbia in the 2018 World Cup, three goals at Euro 2020, and another against Serbia in the 2022 World Cup.
Reflecting on his goal, Shaqiri said, “I wanted to take full advantage of the opponent’s mistake. Then I saw that the goalkeeper was standing far out and thought to myself: ‘Come on, flick it in now.’ I was glad that I didn’t injure my knees (in the celebration). But of course, it was an important goal. And a very nice one too. Today was another day when I was able to help the team. The big games are made for me. I hope I will be remembered for that.”
Switzerland’s advancement to the knock-out stages was secured as Euro 2024 groups are sorted by points and head-to-head records. With four points, Switzerland progresses regardless of their upcoming match against Germany in Frankfurt on Sunday. Scotland, with one point, still has a chance to qualify as a best third-placed team if they defeat Hungary, who have no points, in Stuttgart.