Albania U-19 Secures 3-2 Victory in Friendly Match Against Montenegro

Albania’s U-19 national team triumphed 3-2 against Montenegro in the first friendly match played today in Tuz. The match showcased a strong performance by the Albanian side, led by coach Julian Ahmataj, with goals scored by Ron Hasani, Dean Vranici, and Xheto Joi Nuredini.

Ahmataj’s team started with the following lineup: Alain Taho (GK), Kleo Shpuza, Fabjan Përndreca, Denis Prendi, Antonis Dama, Matia Huqi, Ron Hasani, Dean Vranici, Flavio Sulejmani (C), Jordi Jaku, and Xheto Joi Nuredini.

Albania looked dangerous from the start, maintaining control of the ball and threatening the opposition’s goal. The first goal came in the 31st minute, thanks to Ron Hasani, who capitalized on a defensive error by Montenegro to give Albania the lead. Montenegro equalized 11 minutes later, ending the first half at 1-1.

The second half began positively for Albania, as Dean Vranici restored the lead with a header from a cross by Përndreca. Albania continued to press and found a third goal through Xheto Joi Nuredini in the 60th minute, assisted by captain Flavio Sulejmani. Despite Montenegro narrowing the score to 2-3 in the 77th minute, Albania held on to secure the victory in the first of two friendly matches.

The Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) confirmed that defender Adi Kurti will not be available for these matches due to an injury sustained during Thursday’s training session. The medical staff decided to rest the player to avoid further risk.

Albania will play a second friendly against Montenegro on Sunday at the “Reshit Rusi” Stadium in Shkodër, with kickoff scheduled for 12:00 PM. This will be the final test for the team before the start of the UEFA U-19 European Championship 2025 qualifiers, where Albania is drawn in Group 11 alongside Israel, Denmark, and Northern Ireland, aiming to advance to the Elite Round.

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