Tirana and Elbasani shared the points after a spectacular 2-2 draw in the fifth week of the Albanian Super League at “Selman Stërmasi” Stadium. The match featured four goals and several chances for both sides.

Elbasani took the lead in the 23rd minute. Ardit Nikaj broke into the area and sent the ball toward the center. Tirana defender Ndong tried to clear it, but his deflection sent the ball into his own net.

Tirana responded quickly and equalized seven minutes later. Kish delivered a cross from the right, and Redon Xhixha rose inside the area to head the ball past goalkeeper Aleksovski for 1-1.

Elbasani regained the lead in the 37th minute. Mazari beat the offside trap, went past goalkeeper Bekaj and finished from the left side to make it 2-1.

The visitors went into halftime with the lead. However, Tirana returned strongly after the break and pushed forward in search of another equalizer.

The hosts found it in the 54th minute. Ilievski created the move on the right and delivered the ball to Xhixha, who made no mistake in front of goal. The striker completed his brace and brought Tirana level at 2-2.

Tirana then created several opportunities to complete the comeback. The best chance came in the 78th minute, when Xhixha came close to completing a hat-trick. His shot from the edge of the box struck the post.

Elbasani also threatened during the final stages. Both teams pushed for a winning goal, but neither side managed to break the deadlock.

The match took place without spectators. Tirana had not paid the remaining part of its fine on time, which kept supporters out of the stadium.

The 2-2 draw leaves Tirana and Elbasani with one point each. Following the result, Tirana moved to five points, while Elbasani reached six points.

/a.c/