

International Club Friendly – 8 July 2026
FC Basel 1893 0–3 Yverdon
Yverdon produced a commanding performance to beat Swiss Super League giants FC Basel 1893 3–0 in a pre‑season friendly on 8 July 2026. The result sent a clear message that the ambitious Challenge League side – now preparing for their second consecutive top‑flight season – are ready to compete with the best in the country.
Match Overview
Basel dominated possession in the opening twenty minutes, but failed to turn control into clear‑cut chances. Yverdon, organised and disciplined, struck first against the run of play just before the half‑hour mark. The visitors doubled their lead early in the second half and added a third late on, leaving Basel with plenty to ponder ahead of the new campaign. The final score of 0–3 was a comprehensive statement from Yverdon.
Key Moments
- 28' – Yverdon open the scoring: A swift counter‑attack saw Mats Deverson slip a precise through‑ball to Dominik Klemens, who rounded the Basel goalkeeper and slotted home.
- 56' – Yverdon double their lead: A corner was only partially cleared; Jérémy N’Toulou volleyed the loose ball into the top corner from the edge of the box.
- 79' – Yverdon seal it: Substituter Ilija Aracki latched onto a long goal‑kick, outpaced the Basel defence and chipped the advancing keeper to make it 3–0.
Tactical Story
Basel coach Timo Schultz deployed a 3‑4‑3 system aimed at dominating possession and creating overloads in wide areas. However, Yverdon’s compact 5‑4‑1 block nullified those threats and forced Basel into sideways passing. Yverdon manager Andrea Binotto instructed his team to press high when Basel played out from the back, and the strategy paid off repeatedly. The visitors’ efficiency on the transition was the decisive factor.
Standout Players
- Dominik Klemens (Yverdon) – the striker led the line superbly, scored the opener and held the ball up well throughout.
- Mats Deverson (Yverdon) – his assist for the first goal showcased excellent vision, and his work rate in midfield disrupted Basel’s rhythm.
- Ilija Aracki (Yverdon) – a brilliant cameo off the bench, his late goal put the result beyond doubt.
Season Impact
For Basel, the heavy defeat will serve as a wake‑up call. Expectations are high after a summer of investment, but defensive frailties and a lack of cutting edge were exposed. Yverdon, meanwhile, will head into the new Super League season full of belief after outclassing one of Switzerland’s most decorated clubs. The result also adds intrigue to the upcoming league campaign, with Yverdon proving they are no longer just plucky newcomers.