Shaqiri lives and breathes big moments - Murat Yakin

Switzerland's manager, Murat Yakin, recently praised Xherdan Shaqiri as a player who shines in special moments, and the winger proved him right during their 1-1 draw with Scotland at EURO 2024.

Shaqiri displayed his brilliance by scoring the equalizer with a remarkable strike. He intercepted a poor Scottish pass, charged towards the area, and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner of the net.

Yakin expressed his satisfaction with Shaqiri's performance, stating, "He demonstrated tonight that he thrives in moments like these. Throughout the years, he has consistently shown his ability to deliver in crucial situations. His wonder goal tonight was truly well-deserved."

The goal itself was a clinical strike, perfectly executed given the circumstances. Shaqiri intercepted the ball with two opposition players closing in on him, making his timing impeccable.

Shaqiri, who has played for renowned clubs such as Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, and Liverpool, has now scored in the last three European Championships and World Cups.

Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji praised Shaqiri's dedication, saying, "Shaq always gives his all in training, and he scored a vital goal. Not many other players could have achieved what he did with that goal."

With four points after defeating Hungary in their opening match, Switzerland appears highly likely to progress to the knockout round. They will face Germany, who currently lead Group A with six points, on Sunday. Even if Switzerland were to lose, they still have a chance to advance.

"We still have one more game to go, and the situation is still open. We will do everything within our capabilities to qualify. Our goal is to make it out of the group," Yakin affirmed. "In these first two matches, we have demonstrated our readiness to compete. We haven't completed the task yet, but tonight's performance was a significant step forward."

Yakin added, "It is a worthy progression towards the knockout phase. Scotland posed significant challenges for us, and we had to exert all our energy tonight."

Switzerland has excelled in recent major tournaments, having advanced past the group stage in four of the last five World Cups and reaching the quarterfinals of Euro 2020.