The 19th week of the Albanian Superliga began today in Korçë with a match between Skënderbeu and Elbasani. The visitors, Elbasani, secured a 2-0 victory after 90 minutes, further compounding the crisis for Skënderbeu, who sit at the bottom of the standings and face imminent relegation at the close of 2024.

Skënderbeu, also known as the “Snow Wolves,” has endured a disappointing season marked by underwhelming performances. With their Superliga status at risk, the club’s management is expected to make significant moves in the January transfer window to salvage the season and avoid relegation.

For Elbasani, this victory marks a return to form and is the first win for coach Ivan Gvozdenović since taking charge. Adding to the narrative, Gvozdenović achieved this milestone against his former team. The match saw a competitive first half dominated by the home side, but Elbasani displayed greater aggression in the second half.

The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Lleshi capitalized on a rebound after goalkeeper Alia failed to secure a powerful shot from Qose. Despite Skënderbeu’s attempts to equalize, they struggled to break through Elbasani’s solid defense. In stoppage time, Ze Gomes sealed the result with a clinical finish following a defensive error in Skënderbeu’s box, making it 2-0.

Elbasani’s position contrasts sharply with Skënderbeu’s struggles. After a promising start to the season, Elbasani experienced a dip in performance but now sits in 5th place with 25 points, keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the coveted “Final Four.”

/a.c/