The match between FC Lugano and FC Basel 1893, played yesterday, January 19, 2025 at Cornaredo Stadium, offered interesting insights from both tactical and statistical perspectives. Let us analyze in detail the figures and dynamics that characterized the match.
Recent trend: a precarious balance for both
Leading Lugano is struggling to regain its feeling for victory. The last joy dates back to Dec. 12, in Europe, against Legia Warsaw, while in the league we have to go back to Dec. 7, with the success over Lucerne. The winter break amplifies the lack of victories of the bianconeri, who have not won in Cornaredo since Nov. 24, against Zurich.
It does not get any better for Basel, which has not won the three points since Nov. 24, when it overcame Servette in a comeback 3-1 victory. Nevertheless, the Rhinelanders remain the best attack in Super League, and conceding two goals in a game remains an exception. Only Lausanne, YB, Zurich and, now, Lugano have managed to violate Basel's goal with more than one goal.
Lugano's defense: from strength to wake-up call
One of the most worrying aspects for Lugano is the absence of clean sheet, a figure that clashes with the defensive efficiency shown at the beginning of the season. The last game without conceding goals was on Dec. 4 in the Swiss Cup against Yverdon, while in the league we have to go back to Nov. 3.
Six consecutive games with at least one goal conceded is a sign not to be underestimated. Defensive solidity, must become a mainstay again in order to remain competitive until the end of the season, and win even the most complex games.
Super League slow: a league never so wide open
One interesting fact concerns the decline in the average points of the top teams. In the past five years, the top team at the 20th day boasted an average of 44 points, a full 12 more than Lugano's current 32. This league is distinguished by an unprecedented balance, which makes every game decisive and every point won of vital importance. Everything points to a tight fight until the last day.
Rigors: a thorn in the side
Lugano is the team that has been awarded the most penalties this season, as many as 7. No other Super League team has seen so many penalties whistled against it. The club's negative record dates back to the 2021/22 season, with 10 penalties conceded. Reducing these incidents will be key to consolidating defensive solidity and maintaining the top spot in the standings
Key players
Xherdan Shaqiri (Basel): Author of an assist and a goal, he lit up the game with his classy plays.
Benie Traoré (Basel): Deployed behind Kevin Carlos, his speed and spurts put the Bianconeri rearguard in trouble.
Mattia Zanotti (Lugano): He procured the penalty for the momentary equalizer and provided a constant push on the right flank.
Albian Hajdari (Lugano): A defensive leader, his insertion for the 2-1 goal was true striker, thanks in part to Valenzuela's precise assist.
Match statistics
Total shots: 40 (Lugano 18, Basel 22).
Ball possession: Lugano 51%, Basel 49%.
Expected Goals (xG): Lugano 2.24, Basel 2.71.
Steps completed: Lugano 331 out of 400, Basel 307 out of 381.
Accuracy in dribbling: Lugano 58%, Basel 56%.
Air duels won: Parity at 50% for both teams.
Tackle won: Both teams at 76%.
Final considerations
The draw against Basel leaves mixed feelings. On the one hand, the team showed that it can play on par with one of the best formations in the league. On the other, some aspects emerge that need to be worked on, such as the penalties conceded and the difficulty in keeping the goal inviolate.
Next Saturday's challenge against Winterthur will be another important test to confirm the league lead and regain the victory. One thing is certain: the fight for the title will be long and uncertain, but Lugano has shown that it is ready to fight.
