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For Xherdan Shaqiri, the game against Kosovo is a special affair. Two days before kick-off he is full of anticipation.
From Chicago, Xherdan Shaqiri came to the Nati camp in the tranquil village of Riddes in the canton of Valais. The Swiss had long been the league’s top earner since his arrival in Major League Soccer (MLS) in February 2022, but he recently lost this status – to none other than Lionel Messi. The Argentine not only brought his Inter Miami team into shape, but also created an incredible football hype in the USA.
Shaqiri was also impressed by the “Messi effect”. “The euphoria is very great. You can also see how many stars attend the games. Football has suddenly become very popular,” explained the 31-year-old. Shaqiri is not surprised that Miami has gone from relegation to title candidate thanks to Messi: “In the MLS, anyone can beat anyone. When you suddenly have four or five such good players, it has a big impact.”
I can’t wait to be on the pitch where I was born. This has always been a dream of mine.
Now Shaqiri is concentrating fully on the national team gathering. With the away game in Kosovo there is a special issue for the offensive player. Switzerland has only played against Kosovo once, a friendly in Letzigrund ended 1-1 last year. On Saturday, however, things are serious, it’s about points in the European Championship qualification.
“It will be a special game,” admitted Shaqiri. The anticipation is huge: “I can hardly wait to be on the pitch where I was born. This has always been a dream of mine. It’s great that I can experience that with the Swiss national team.”
Many ticket requests fulfilled
Shaqiri and the Nati will probably not lack support in Pristina. The 31-year-old had to fulfill many ticket requests: “Luckily I was able to organize everything. My whole family will be there.” Despite all the friendship, he also made it clear: “It’s about three points, we have to deliver our performance.”
But Shaqiri couldn’t help but smile: “There are a few family members who will see me play for the first time. I just hope that they are also for me and the national team.”