Servette FCCF’s journey in the Swiss Cup ends here. Defeated in the penalty shootout by FC Basel Frauen, the Servettians must now focus solely on the league.

Football can be cruel—sometimes unfair—and Servette FCCF learned that the hard way tonight. In the semi-final of the Swiss Cup, Servette lost 1-1 (5-6 on penalties) to FC Basel Frauen after a breathtaking match between the two best teams in the league.

José Barcala had prepared a game plan centered on high pressing against Basel’s buildup. The opening minutes were completely dominated by the Garnet side, and they were quickly rewarded with a goal. From a corner, Yenifer Giménez sent the ball into the net with a superb half-volley (8’). At that point, Basel hadn’t even touched the ball in Geneva’s half. But they quickly responded, pushing for the equalizer. A long-range shot struck Joana Marchão’s arm, and the attentive referee pointed to the penalty spot. Despite Mickaëla Bottega’s good effort, Wos converted for Basel. These would be the only goals of the match.

Servette had numerous chances throughout the game and could have (should have?) avoided extra time and penalties, but they were repeatedly denied by the outstanding Klink in goal. The German goalkeeper made several world-class saves to keep her team in the match. In the dying moments of extra time, she pulled off a goal-line save to deny Sandrine Mauron’s perfect volley. Between hitting the post and the crossbar, frustration peaked as the outcome would be decided by penalties.

The first shooters from both sides blasted their efforts into the net. Then, Mickaëla Bottega made a crucial save against Csillag! Landryna Lushimba followed up by extending the lead. Basel converted their fourth penalty, and Servette needed just one more successful shot to reach the final. But football can be brutal—Klink was on fire tonight. Manon Revelli, who had played an excellent match, saw her shot saved. In sudden death, Yenifer Giménez’s strike hit the crossbar. Servette FCCF is eliminated, and Basel will face Zurich in the final in two weeks.

Now, this frustration must be digested and used as fuel for the rest of the league campaign. The biggest title is still to be decided in the next two months—and the Servettians want it more than anything. It’s in moments like these that great teams reveal themselves. And this SFCCF side is a great team!

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