FC Basel will put their formidable European home record to the test as they welcome one of Europe's most in-form sides, Aston Villa, to St. Jakob-Park for their Matchday Six clash in the UEFA Europa League League Phase.
The match, set for Thursday, December 11, 2025, represents the final European fixture of the calendar year for both clubs and carries significant weight as they look to solidify their position in the standings.
Aston Villa's Magnificent Run
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa side arrives in Switzerland in magnificent form, boasting a seven-match winning streak across all competitions, including a dramatic 2-1 victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal in their last outing. This stunning run has propelled the Villans up the Premier League table and secured them a strong standing in the Europa League, where they sit joint-top of the League Phase with 12 points after five matches.
Villa has shown both efficiency and resilience in their European campaign, and a result here is crucial to their hopes of securing a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16. However, their away form in the Europa League has been less consistent, suggesting this trip will be a true test of their mettle.
Basel's Home Fortress
While FC Basel sits lower in the League Phase standings, they have turned St. Jakob-Park into a European fortress. The Swiss side possesses the longest current home winning streak in the Europa League, having won their last seven matches on home soil in the competition. This remarkable run, which includes eight wins and two draws in their last ten European home games, demonstrates their ability to raise their game when backed by their home support.
Basel currently occupies a qualifying spot, and points are vital to maintain their position against the chasing pack. Head coach Ludovic Magnin will rely heavily on the influence of veteran playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri, who has been instrumental in attack with goals and assists this season.
Key Battles and History
The two sides last met in the 2001 UEFA Intertoto Cup final, which Aston Villa won 5-2 on aggregate. While history favors the English club in this particular fixture, the current form book is more nuanced.
The key tactical battle will be between Villa’s high-pressing, structured attack, likely led by Ollie Watkins or Donyell Malen, and Basel's defense, which will be determined to maintain their excellent home record. The midfield contest will be crucial, but the main threat for Basel remains the individual brilliance of Xherdan Shaqiri, whose experience in high-stakes European matches is invaluable.
Aston Villa enters as favorites, but they must overcome Basel's fierce competitive spirit and their unique ability to dominate at St. Jakob-Park. Expect a tightly contested affair with both teams eager to finish the year strongly.
