Today, Albania U-21 faced Switzerland U-21 in another crucial match valid for the qualifiers of the UEFA European Championship 2025 for this age group. The match, played at the "Air Albania" stadium, concluded with Switzerland emerging victorious with a scoreline of 3-1.
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| Moment from the U21 Albania vs Switzerland match at Air Albania, March 26, 2024 |
Coach Alban Bushi commenced the match against Switzerland U-21 with the following starting lineup for Albania U-21: Simon Simoni (G), Agan Mjaki, Ajdi Dajko, Adrian Bajrami, Elmando Gjini, Paulo Buxhelaj, Medon Berisha (C), Feta Fetai, Adrion Pajaziti, Ermir Rashica, Ardit Nikaj.
The match kicked off with Albania being more assertive, attempting to exert pressure right from the start. As minutes passed, the game became balanced, but Switzerland seized the advantage in the 29th minute with Surdez scoring from a penalty kick. Towards the end of the first half, Albania came close to scoring with captain Medon Berisha, but his header missed the target.
That was all for the first half, and the second half began with two substitutions for the Albanian side. Ermis Selimaj and Stiven Shpendi were introduced onto the field of play.
Switzerland extended their lead with a second goal in the 59th minute, scored by Sanches from within the box. Albania tried to respond and had some good chances with Frroku and Shpendi but without success.
Switzerland secured their third goal in the 76th minute courtesy of Aaron Keller. The Albanian players persisted until the end to find the back of the net, and they succeeded through Stiven Shpendi. However, the match concluded with a 3-1 victory for Switzerland U-21.
This defeat adds to Albania U-21's challenges in the qualifiers, highlighting areas for improvement as they continue their campaign in the UEFA European Championship 2025 qualifiers.