The Albanian women’s national football team has secured another major victory in the UEFA Nations League, defeating Croatia for the second time in a row — this time away from home. In a thrilling match held at the “Sport Centre Rudes,” Albania pulled off an impressive 2-1 comeback win in the Group B4 clash.
 |
Croatia struck first with a goal in the 11th minute from Ivana Slipečević, putting the home side in the lead. However, Albania responded with resilience and intensity. In the 32nd minute, Fortesa Berisha equalized with a superb finish, leveling the score at 1-1 before halftime.
The second half saw a more aggressive and determined Albanian side, with Fortesa Berisha and Valentina Troka continuously threatening the Croatian defense. The pressure paid off in the 71st minute when Berisha launched a sharp attack from the flank and delivered a dangerous ball into the box. In an attempt to clear it, Croatian defender Balog accidentally deflected the ball into her own net, giving Albania a 2-1 lead.
Head coach Armir Grima lined up his team with the following starting eleven:
Antigona Hyska (GK), Klea Hamonikaj, Alma Hila, Arbiona Bajraktari, Armela Tukaj, Ilarja Zarka, Ezmiralda Franja, Fortesa Berisha, Megi Doçi (C), Valentina Troka, Qendresa Krasniqi.
This comeback victory is another historic achievement for the Albanian women’s team, which now sits third in Group B4 with 6 points. Their final two matches in the group stage will be against Ukraine (away) and Czech Republic (home), as they continue their campaign with hopes of advancing further.
Albania’s performance highlights their growing strength and determination on the European stage — a proud moment for the national side and its supporters.