Albian Ajeti struck inside three minutes to set FC Basel on course for a much-needed 2-0 victory over VfB Stuttgart, ending the Swiss side’s run of three games without a win in European competition this season.
Basel wasted no time in their first home appearance of this year’s UEFA Europa League, capitalising on a defensive lapse that left Ajeti clean through.
The striker showed composure beyond doubt, sliding his finish neatly past the visiting goalkeeper to give the hosts an ideal start.
Stuttgart had a golden opportunity to level the contest shortly before halftime when Tiago Tomas was fouled in the box. However, Ermedin Demirovic’s spot-kick was pushed away by Marwin Hitz, who guessed right and parried low to keep Basel in front.
The missed penalty did little to dampen Stuttgart’s attacking intent. Jamie Leweling forced openings and Badredine Bouanani carried a constant threat, flashing one effort just wide before testing Hitz again in the second half.
Still, despite the pressure, Basel held their ground and ultimately delivered the knockout blow late on.
Veteran midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri made sure of the points with a decisive close-range strike that blurred the lines between cross and shot, doubling the advantage and silencing Stuttgart’s hopes.
The defeat halted Stuttgart’s three-game winning streak in all competitions, while Basel celebrated their first Europa League success of the campaign.
The Germans now face an uphill task with a testing away trip to Fenerbahce looming on Matchday 3.
