The much-anticipated capital city derby between KF Tirana and Partizani Tirana at the “Air Albania Stadium” ended in a decisive 3-0 triumph for the White and Blues. For coach Roberto Bordin, this marked his first victory of the season, while Partizani suffered their fourth consecutive defeat, slipping further into crisis.
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This win was more than just three points for Tirana—it was a statement performance that reignited belief among their fans and sent a strong signal to the rest of the Albanian Superliga.
A Derby that Rekindled Tirana’s Fire
Heading into the sixth round of the Abissnet Superiore, Tirana was under pressure, having failed to win their first five matches. The derby provided the spark they desperately needed, and the team seized the opportunity with authority.
From the very beginning, Partizani tried to control possession, circulating the ball with intent. However, their dominance was sterile, as they failed to create real scoring opportunities. Tirana, on the other hand, showed sharpness in transition and punished their rivals at the first real chance.
First Half: Early Goals Break the Balance
The deadlock was broken in the 19th minute. Following a cross from the right, Partizani goalkeeper Alban Hoxha misjudged his exit, allowing Falaye to head the ball into the empty net. It was a defensive lapse that set the tone for the rest of the match.
Just ten minutes later, Tirana doubled their lead. Patsatsia was brought down inside the box after a clumsy challenge from Marku. The Georgian midfielder stepped up confidently to convert the penalty in the 31st minute, leaving Hoxha helpless.
At 2-0 down, Partizani looked rattled. They lacked ideas, struggled to build momentum, and lost both Hoxha and Preka to injuries at the start of the second half, forcing coach Mladen Milinković into two early substitutions.
Second Half: Partizani Collapses, Tirana Punishes
The second half highlighted the gulf between the two sides. Tirana continued to press forward, nearly scoring again through Fernandez, who was denied by substitute goalkeeper Qirko.
Partizani, on the other hand, were toothless in attack. Their only notable attempt came in the 69th minute, when Da Silva’s shot was comfortably saved by Tafas.
The final blow arrived in the 74th minute. Tabekou made a dazzling run down the left flank, cutting inside and curling a precise shot beyond Qirko to seal the 3-0 victory. From that moment, the derby was effectively over, with Tirana firmly in control until the final whistle.
A Tale of Two Clubs: Rising Tirana, Struggling Partizani
The derby revealed two contrasting realities. Tirana, after a sluggish start to the season, has rediscovered confidence and demonstrated the attacking quality they were missing in earlier rounds. Players like Fernandez, Falaye, Patsatsia, and Tabekou combined well, offering Bordin hope for a strong turnaround.
Partizani, however, faces serious concerns. With four defeats in a row and only one win so far—achieved in the opening week against Vora—the Red side of the capital is in turmoil. Their defense appeared disorganized, their midfield uninspired, and their attack lacked precision. Unless immediate changes are made, the crisis may deepen further.
Player Highlights
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Falaye: Opened the scoring with composure, capitalizing on defensive chaos.
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Patsatsia: Won and converted the crucial penalty, giving Tirana a comfortable cushion.
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Tabekou: Delivered the knockout punch with a spectacular individual goal.
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Tafas (GK): Stayed alert when called upon, ensuring Tirana kept a clean sheet.
For Partizani, Da Silva tried to spark a reaction, but his efforts were isolated and insufficient.
Match Summary: Partizani 0–3 Tirana
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Goals: Falaye 19’, Patsatsia 31’ (pen.), Tabekou 74’
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Venue: Air Albania Stadium, Tirana
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Coaches: Roberto Bordin (Tirana), Mladen Milinković (Partizani)
Lineups:
Partizani – Hoxha, Preka, Janjeva, Marku, Atanaskoski, Ismaili, Kote, Hjumen, Garsia, Qokthi, Bintsuka.
Tirana – Tafas, Valerianos, Lleshi, Soler, Vera, Fernandez, Haxhiu, Falaye, Vogli, Patsatsia, Tabekou.
What This Win Means for Tirana
This victory could mark a turning point in Tirana’s season. Not only did they claim bragging rights in the city’s fiercest rivalry, but they also proved their ability to rise to the occasion under pressure. Coach Bordin now has a foundation to build upon, and with confidence restored, Tirana could climb quickly up the Superliga table.
For Partizani, however, alarm bells are ringing. A team with ambitions of contending for the title cannot afford such a disastrous run. Urgent tactical and psychological adjustments are required to halt the decline.
The 3-0 victory for Tirana over Partizani in the capital derby was more than just three points—it was a symbol of revival for the White and Blues and a harsh reality check for the Reds. As fans celebrated in the stands of the Air Albania Stadium, one thing was clear: in this derby, Tirana was superior in every aspect.
If this match is a sign of things to come, the season might just be turning in Tirana’s favor, while Partizani faces the daunting task of digging themselves out of a deepening crisis.