The Albanian U-19 national team secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Montenegro in a friendly match played this afternoon in Tuz. Under the guidance of coach Julian Ahmataj, the team performed admirably, creating several chances and netting three goals through Ron Hasani, Dean Vranici, and Xheto Joi Nuredini.
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| The Albanian U-19 national team before the match against Montenegro, 11 February 2024, Tuz, Montenegro |
Ahmataj lined up his team with the following formation: Alain Taho (GK), Kleo Shpuza, Fabjan Përndreca, Denis Prendi, Antonis Dama, Matia Huqi, Ron Hasani, Dean Vranici, Flavio Sulejmani (C), Jordi Jaku, and Xheto Joi Nuredini.
Albania started the match aggressively, controlling possession and threatening the Montenegrin defense early on. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Ron Hasani capitalized on a defensive error to put the visitors ahead. However, Montenegro responded swiftly, equalizing just 11 minutes later, and the first half ended 1-1.
The second half began brightly for Albania, with Vranici restoring the lead in the 52nd minute. Fabjan Përndreca delivered a perfectly placed cross from the left, and Vranici headed it home to double the score. Albania continued to press and was rewarded with a third goal in the 60th minute when Xheto Joi Nuredini, assisted by captain Flavio Sulejmani, finished with finesse to give the team a comfortable 3-1 advantage.
Montenegro managed to reduce the deficit in the 77th minute, but Albania held firm to claim the 3-2 win in this first friendly encounter between the two sides.
The Football Federation of Albania (FSHF) also reported that U-19 defender Adi Kurti will miss both friendly matches due to an injury sustained during Thursday's training session. After medical evaluations, the staff decided to rest the player to avoid further risks.
Albania will play Montenegro again on Sunday in the second and final friendly match at “Reshit Rusi” Stadium in Shkodër, scheduled to kick off at 12:00. This will be the team's last preparatory match ahead of the first qualifying round for the 2025 UEFA European U-19 Championship. Albania is placed in Group 11 alongside Israel, Denmark, and Northern Ireland, and their goal is to advance to the Elite Round.