The city of Zurich’s football faithful have endured a challenging season, their loyalty tested by a string of dismal performances and off-field setbacks. However, a glimmer of hope emerged this past weekend as both Grasshopper Club Zurich (GC) and FC Zurich reversed their fortunes with dramatic, late-goal victories in the Swiss Super League.

It marked only the second time this season, and the first since matchday six, that both rival clubs celebrated a win in the same round – a significant morale boost for a footballing heart that has felt increasingly bruised.

From Pitch Woes to a Stadium Battle

The struggles have been palpable. GC, in particular, had been in a precarious position. Towards the end of October and early November, the club suffered two humiliating away defeats, a 0-5 drubbing in St. Gallen and a staggering 0-6 loss in Luzern. This left them dangerously close to relegation-threatened Winterthur, threatening to pull them deeper into the league’s cellar.

Across town, FC Zurich’s situation was equally dire. Following the dismissal of coach Mitchell van der Gaag, interim manager Dennis Hediger oversaw an extension of their losing streak, turning two defeats into five. Fans voiced their frustration loudly, with chants of “Milos raus!” (Milos out!) directed at sporting director Milos Malenovic.

Adding to the gloomy atmosphere, Friday brought news that opponents of the planned new stadium in Zurich are appealing their case to the Federal Supreme Court. This institutional reference highlights how the challenges for Zurich football extend beyond on-pitch performance, intertwining with significant urban development and public interest issues, creating a broader sense of uncertainty for the sport’s future in the city.

Late Goals, Renewed Hope

Amidst this backdrop, Saturday’s results felt like a much-needed balm. GC secured a vital win against Winterthur in what was effectively a crucial six-pointer, while FC Zurich mounted an impressive comeback against Luzern. Both victories were forged in the dying moments of the game, courtesy of stoppage-time goals – the kind of hard-fought successes coaches often laud for demonstrating “moral” and “solidarity.”

While GC’s performance against Winterthur might not be remembered for its footballing artistry, and FC Zurich’s defense under Hediger still showed vulnerabilities, the wins themselves were paramount. They provided a dramatic reprieve and an immediate impact on the league table: thanks to Servette’s loss against league leaders Thun, Zurich clubs are no longer occupying the bottom three spots.

These victories, though just a single round’s worth, offer a vital injection of confidence and a rare moment of collective celebration for a city’s football community that has been yearning for positive news. For now, the focus shifts from frustration to the hope that these late-game heroics can spark a more sustained upturn in fortunes for both Zurich clubs.