TIRANA, April 1 – Albania lost 1-0 to Ukraine in a friendly match at Estadi Ciutat de València in Valencia.

Coach Sylvinho fielded a starting lineup of Strakosha, Mitaj, Gjimshiti (C), Pllana, Hysaj, Asllani, Shehu, Laçi, Broja, Uzuni, and Hoxha. The first half was balanced, with few clear chances. Albania’s best opportunity came in the 25th minute when Armando Broja beat the defense on the right wing but failed to score. The half ended 0-0.

Sylvinho made two substitutions at the start of the second half, bringing on Pilon and Mehmeti for Hoxha and Broja. One minute later, Ukraine took the lead as Oleksii Hutsuliak headed in a goal in the 46th minute.

Albania responded in the 59th minute, when Qazim Laçi fired a strong long-range shot, but the Ukrainian goalkeeper deflected it. Sylvinho made three more changes in the 60th minute, introducing Ivan Balliu, Nedim Bajrami, and Adrion Pajaziti for Hysaj, Shehu, and Laçi.

Albania pushed for an equalizer but could not break through, and the match ended with a narrow 1-0 victory for Ukraine.

/a.p./