Albania’s U-19 national team came from behind late to beat Lithuania 3-2 in the first friendly match at Vora Stadium.

Coach Fatjon Tafaj started with Raffaele Huli in goal. Kris Gecaj captained the team. Leon Sylejmani, Spasian Nasto, Dion Vata, Andreas Llana, Serxho Vogli, Rikardo Sheji, Oliver Blini, Alen Vukaj and Grei Kuqi also started.

Albania took the lead in the 18th minute. Oliver Blini scored the opening goal. However, Lithuania responded after halftime. The visitors scored twice and turned the game around.

Albania refused to give up. In the 90th minute, Jokubas Ziedelis scored an own goal and brought Albania level. Moments later, Albania won a penalty. Armend Muslika earned the spot-kick after advancing into the box.

Muslika took the penalty himself. He converted from the spot and gave Albania a dramatic 3-2 victory. The young Red and Blacks showed strong character. They continued to fight until the final whistle and secured the win in their first friendly against Lithuania.

The teams will meet again on October 2 at Vora Stadium. Kick-off is set for 15:30.

/a.c/