Stephan Lichtsteiner, the man in charge of FC Basel, showed his humorous side on Friday ahead of the top-of-the-table clash. FC Basel faces league leaders BSC Young Boys at the Wankdorf Stadium in Bern on Saturday at 8:30 PM, their toughest task of the season. This is reported by the outlet bz Basel in an exclusive piece for subscribers. The Red and Blues enter the match as third in the Super League with nine points from four games, sitting just one point behind YB. Their current record shows three wins and one loss, with seven goals scored and four conceded.
How is Lichtsteiner preparing for YB?
Lichtsteiner's relaxed demeanor on Friday contrasted with the serious challenge ahead. The former international knows that a success in Bern would send a strong signal for the rest of the campaign. The team has presented itself confidently after a strong start to the season with the form WWLW. A win would propel FC Basel to the top of the table, at least temporarily. The next opportunity to collect points comes on September 20th in a home match against currently fourth-placed FC St. Gallen, as shown on our fixtures page.
What does the ten-year series against YB mean?
An unpleasant statistic looms in the background for the club. The report mentions a horror series spanning ten years. This long period without significant success in Bern weighs on the psyche and is a constant topic in preparation. Ending this series would be a real relief for the entire club. The current table situation and good form offer a rare opportunity to break this curse. A detailed analysis of the season so far can be found on our stats page.
What other issues are occupying FCB?
Beyond the sporting focus, other topics are present around the club. The bz Basel report mentions the handling of star player Xherdan Shaqiri and the transfer deadline rush in the Super League. These subplots demand the attention of those in charge, even though the derby is the main focus. Clear focus on the essentials will be decisive for Lichtsteiner and his team.
What comes after the top match?
Regardless of the result in Bern, the next important game is already waiting. FC Basel hosts FC St. Gallen at St. Jakob-Park on September 20th. This duel could also be decisive for the upper half of the table. The team must find consistency in its performances to keep up in the tight leading group. The current standings show how close the race is. With nine points from four games, FC Basel has laid a solid foundation. Now it's about confirming this base in direct duels against the competition and finally ending the horror series.
