Shaqiri's book of international exploits
Shaqiri, the star of Swiss football, made his debut on November 11, 2009 in the Swiss U-21 kit. He was only 20 years old at the time, but showed his first signs of promise when he helped his team beat Turkey U-21 3-1 in the 2011 U-21 Europa League qualifying round. Then, on June 11, 2011, in the group stage of the UEFA European U-21 Championship, he was a key player in Switzerland's 1-0 win over Denmark U-21 with a spectacular goal.
In 2010, Shaqiri was promoted to the adult national team, making his debut against Uruguay in a friendly match on March 3, 2010. Although Switzerland lost 1-3, Shaqiri had already made his mark on the national team. That same year, he was selected by national team manager Ottmar Heathfield for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and on September 7, 2010, he celebrated the first goal of his national team career, a left-footed volley that scored a crucial goal for Switzerland in a Euro 2012 qualifying match. The following year, Shaqiri proved his worth again in the Euro 2012 qualifiers, with a hat-trick performance helping his team to a 3-1 comeback victory over Bulgaria.
On the eve of the 2012 Olympics, the Swiss Football Association attempted to recall him for the men's Olympic soccer tournament, but he ultimately chose to stay with his new club for pre-season training.
In June 2014, Shaqiri was named to the Swiss squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. In the first match against Ecuador, he helped the team win 2-1 with a single goal and was honored as the best player of the match. In the following match, he helped the Swiss team win 3-0 against Honduras with a hat-trick, advancing to the round of sixteen.
On June 22, 2018, Shaqiri scored the winning goal against Serbia in the group stage of the World Cup, helping Switzerland to a 2-1 victory. Notably, he and his goal-scoring teammate Zaka, both of Kosovar descent, sparked widespread attention with their celebratory gesture of the double-headed eagle of the Albanian flag displayed after the goal, as well as the Swiss and Kosovar flags embroidered on their boots. However, the celebration also earned him a fine of 10,000 Swiss francs.
Shaqiri's national team career has certainly been a storied journey. For more stats and stories about him, stay tuned to this site for further coverage.
