Last weekend, the Hoppers drew 1-1 with FC Lugano in Ticino. The Hoppers conceded a bitter equaliser only two minutes before the end and thus had to settle for one point only. Now they have a busy week ahead of them, with two home games against FC Basel 1893, first in the Swiss Cup and then on Saturday for the Championship.
Striker Renat Dadashov: "The Cup is always something special. We will give 100% and definitely want to stay in this competition. With the fans behind us, this will be possible!"
FC Basel also had to concede a late goal last weekend. They lost at home against FC Luzern in the 89th minute with 2:3. Before that, they drew 1-1 against St.Gallen in the first championship match of 2023. On their way to the 1/8 final of the Swiss Cup, FCB defeated Challenge League team FC Aarau and FC Allschwil. Now they come to Zurich for the round of 16 against the Hoppers.
For this match, head coach Giorgio Contini will still have to do without Guilherme Schettine and Momoh Francis, both dealing with injuries. Also, Li Lei is currently struggling with knee complaints and will therefore be absent. Otherwise, Contini will have the entire squad at his disposal.
The match can be followed as usual on 86live via live ticker and radio. The match can also be wacthed on free TV on SRF Sport.
Free orange punch
As a thank you to all the loyal fans who support the team live at the stadium despite the cold temperatures, the club will be offering free non-alcoholic orange punch to the spectators. Staff will be walking around in Sector C during the match to hand out the punch. In Sectors A and B there will be a dedicated stand where the punch can be collected.
