Xherdan Shaqiri played a starring role as Switzerland came from behind to beat Belgium in Sunday’s UEFA Nations League contest.
The Liverpool star played an integral role in three goals as he helped his nation overturn a two-goal deficit to win 5-2.
A Thorgan Hazard brace put Belgium two up after 17 minutes before Ricardo Rodríguez pulled a goal back for the hosts from the penalty spot on 26 minutes.
Switzerland were level five minutes later when Shaqiri’s delicate header teed up Haris Seferovic for a simple close range finish.
Seferovic put his side ahead on the stroke of half-time before Shaqiri’s superb cross set up Nico Elvedi to head home a fourth following the restart. The Reds’ summer signing also had a hand in Switzerland’s fifth as he fooled two markers with a clever flick to find Kevin Mbabu, who saw his cross headed home by Seferovic for his hat-trick.
Shaqiri finished the game with two assists and four chances created to continue his fine form for club and country.
Xherdan Shaqiri vs Belgium (5-2)
87% passing
4 chances created – most for Switzerland
2 assists
6/6 dribbles – most on the pitch
2 interceptionsUnstoppable right now 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/ArQFDwqK0e
— LFC Stats (@LFCData) November 18, 2018
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It marked the latest statement from Shaqiri in his bid to cement a regular starting spot under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.
Recent weeks have seen the former Stoke City man assert himself as a possible solution to the Reds’ lack of midfield creativity. This was further demonstrated by his ability to operate on the half-turn as a central playmaker against Belgium.
On the back of a standout display in the 2-0 win over Fulham last time out, the 27-year-old may well be in contention to play from the off in Saturday’s clash with Watford.