Albanian football continues to produce encouraging results—not only at the senior level with Albania A, but also across the youth teams that are shaping the future of the national program. A clear demonstration of this progress came today, as Albania U-21 defeated Ukraine U-21 with a convincing 2–0 victory in an international friendly hosted at the “Elbasan Arena.” This is the second consecutive win in November for the U-21 squad, reinforcing optimism for the upcoming UEFA U-21 Euro 2027 qualifiers.
 |
| Abanian U-21 team before the match against Ukraine, November 17, 2025 |
A Strong First Half and a VAR-Validated Goal by Ermir Rashica
The opening stages of the match made Albania’s intentions very clear. By the 5th minute, Ermir Rashica had already tested the Ukrainian goalkeeper, and he continued to threaten again in the 12th minute. These early chances set the tone for what would become a dominant Albanian display.
The breakthrough arrived in the 39th minute, when a loose ball in the penalty area fell in front of Rashica. With quick instinct, he pushed the ball into the net. Initially, the goal was not awarded—sparking brief confusion on the pitch. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned and the goal was confirmed as valid. This moment gave Albania the advantage and further strengthened their confidence.
Solid Defensive Structure and Controlled Second Half
One of the key strengths of this Albania U-21 side is its defensive solidity. The back line—featuring players such as Elton Fikaj, Ervin Bashi, Gabriel Ramaj, and captain Feta Fetai—remained compact, organized, and tactically aware throughout the match. Ukraine struggled to create any clear scoring opportunities, as every attack was quickly closed down by Albania’s defense and midfield pressure.
In the second half, the Albanian squad shifted into a more controlled game plan, preserving possession while also launching dangerous counterattacks. Coach Bushi made strategic substitutions, bringing in Kevin Dodaj and Rrok Toma in the 65th minute, replacing Etnik Brruti and goal-scorer Rashica.
These substitutions would later prove decisive.
Kevin Dodaj’s Brilliant Playmaking Leads to the Final Goal
As the match approached its final minutes, Ukraine pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Albania won a corner kick in stoppage time, and instead of wasting time or keeping the ball near the sideline—as the Ukrainian defenders expected—Kevin Dodaj made a bold, creative decision. He dribbled into the penalty area, skillfully bypassing markers before delivering a clean pass to Gjergji Kote.
Kote, positioned perfectly, struck the ball into the net, securing the second goal and sealing Albania’s 2–0 victory. It was a moment of inspiration, confidence, and tactical intelligence—exactly the qualities needed at the U-21 international level.
Starting Line-Up
Albania U-21 XI:
Simon Simoni (GK), Elton Fikaj, Ervin Bashi, Gabriel Ramaj, Feta Fetai (C), Burak Alili, Ermir Rashica, Etnik Brruti, Aidon Shehu, Arlind Kurti, Fabjan Përndreca.
This young squad demonstrated a strong balance between defensive rigor and attacking creativity—a combination that will be crucial in future competitive matches.
A Promising November and Preparation for the Future
The victory against Ukraine comes just days after Albania U-21 also defeated Moldova in another friendly match. With two wins in a row and solid performances across the roster, these November fixtures represent valuable preparation for the upcoming UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2027 qualifiers.
Coach Alban Bushi has emphasized development, confidence, and tactical growth—and the team is clearly responding. The depth of talent emerging from Albania’s youth football system continues to grow, providing hope for the future of the national program at all levels.
This momentum mirrors the positive results achieved by Albania A, showing that the entire structure of Albanian football—from senior to youth teams—is rising together. With discipline, talent, and growing ambition, Albania U-21 is shaping a new generation of players ready to compete on the European stage.