EURO2024
“Why are you shooting?”: Switzerland pays tribute to artistic shooter Shaqiri
Xherdan Shaqiri equalised from just 20 metres. Photo
© Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa
With his goal to make it 1-1 against Scotland, the veteran not only delighted his teammates, but even received praise from the opposing coach.
“It’s very special. I’m proud of it,” said the attacker, adding: “I hit the ball perfectly. It’s always a very nice feeling when I score a goal for my country.”
After the final whistle, Shaqiri’s teammates and national coach Murat Yakin were full of praise for the veteran, who equalized with a direct shot into the corner from almost 20 meters. “That was a beautiful goal. You could see that he lives for these moments,” said Yakin.
Goalkeeper Yann Sommer admitted that he did not think Shaqiri was capable of the trick shot. “At first I thought: Why are you shooting? Please don’t. But it’s Shaq.”
Even Scotland coach Steve Clarke gave the 32-year-old the recognition he deserved. “If it had been any other player than Shaqiri, it wouldn’t have been a goal. That says everything about his class,” said Clarke about the professional, who has been earning his money in Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire for more than two years.