FC St. Gallen U21 wins 3-1 against FC Aarau in test match

On July 4, 2026, the FC St. Gallen U21 side sent a clear message in a friendly against FC Aarau: 3‑1, with two rapid goals in the second half. The Eastern Swiss youngsters proved they can be dangerous beyond the 1. Liga.

How did the match unfold?

After a goalless first half, St. Gallen’s attack broke through in the 31st minute. Stöber scored to make it 0‑1, before Aarau’s test player Eliah Jordan, a right‑back from Basel U21, equalised at 1‑1. Just before the break Jordan struck again for a 1‑1. The second half exploded: Rüdlinger added in the 66th minute and, a minute later, Ibraimov sealed the 3‑1 final.

Which players stood out?

Nineteen‑year‑old Zidan Tairi, fresh from a three‑year contract at Brügglifeld, played in a three‑man midfield and showed his scoring instincts, even though he didn’t directly influence the scoreline. His German record – 25 goals in 74 matches for Hoffenheim’s youth sides – speaks volumes. Test player Eliah Jordan also demonstrated why Aarau is monitoring him.

What does this mean for youth development?

The win gives the St. Gallen coaching staff confidence in squad depth. While the U21 already competes in the 1. Liga, experience from such friendlies will help the youngsters make the step up to the first team. For Aarau, the match was a litmus test for new prospects still seeking a breakthrough.

Current season context

In the Super League, FC St. Gallen sits second with 60 points (17 W, 9 D, 7 L) and a recent run of D W W L W. The club has scored 64 goals and conceded 40, a +24 goal difference, yet remains 14 points behind leaders FC Thun. The U21 success could eventually boost the senior squad’s quality and aid the title chase.