The Albania women’s national team made a dream start to their 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign, securing a crucial 2-1 away victory against Montenegro in a match filled with drama, intensity, and character.
Led by head coach Armir Grima, the Red and Blacks showed determination and resilience, with captain Megi Doçi delivering a captain’s performance by scoring both goals in a memorable comeback win.
This vital three-point triumph marks a powerful opening statement for Albania as they aim to compete strongly in the Road to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Starting Line-Up and Tactical Approach
Coach Armir Grima trusted the following starting eleven:
- Antigoni Hyska (GK)
- Klea Hamonikaj
- Arbiona Bajraktari
- Alma Hilaj
- Arbenita Curraj
- Ezmiralda Franja
- Mikaela Metalla
- Fortesa Berisha
- Ilarja Zarka
- Qëndresa Krasniqi
- Megi Doçi (Captain)
From the opening whistle, Albania displayed composure and balance. The first 10 minutes were evenly contested, with both teams cautiously studying each other.
Montenegro produced an early dangerous opportunity, but goalkeeper Antigoni Hyska reacted calmly to control the situation and keep the score level.
First Half: Albania Creates the Better Chances
Albania’s first major opportunity arrived in the 17th minute when Fortesa Berisha made an impressive run from the right side into the box and unleashed a powerful shot, only to see the Montenegrin goalkeeper deny her effort.
As the half progressed, Albania increased their attacking intensity. Berisha, Qëndresa Krasniqi, and Megi Doçi all threatened the opposition goal, but the finishing touch was missing.
Despite dominating long spells and creating the clearer chances, the first half ended 0-0.
Second Half Drama: Goals, Emotions, and a Captain’s Response
The second half began with Montenegro attempting to shift momentum, creating an early scare. However, Albania quickly regained control.
In the 51st minute, Krasniqi delivered a precise cross into the box, finding Doçi, whose header was once again denied by the home goalkeeper.
Moments later, another golden opportunity fell to Ezmiralda Franja after a clever combination play, but her shot sailed just over the crossbar.
Albania continued pushing relentlessly. In the 64th minute, Krasniqi assisted Fortesa Berisha, whose effort was saved. The rebound fell to Doçi, but once again the Montenegrin goalkeeper produced a crucial intervention.
Then came the unexpected setback.
In the 67th minute, Montenegro’s captain Kuc scored to give the home side a 1-0 lead — against the run of play and during Albania’s strongest spell.
Megi Doçi Steps Up
Great teams respond to adversity, and great captains lead from the front.
Just three minutes later, Albania equalized. Qëndresa Krasniqi delivered a beautifully timed ball into the area, where Megi Doçi was perfectly positioned to finish clinically for 1-1.
The equalizer reignited Albania’s confidence.
In the 76th minute, Doçi produced a moment of brilliance that will be remembered by Albanian fans. From a free-kick situation, she unleashed a stunning strike — a true “Eurogoal” — sealing the 2-1 victory in spectacular fashion.
Her performance underlined her leadership and importance to the squad, not only as a scorer but as a symbol of belief and fighting spirit.
A Victory of Character and Belief
This was more than just three points. It was a statement of intent.
Albania demonstrated:
- Tactical discipline
- Mental strength after conceding
- Attacking creativity
- Leadership under pressure
Winning away in Montenegro is no small achievement, and beginning the qualification campaign with a comeback victory strengthens the team’s confidence moving forward.
The result positions Albania positively in the early stages of their World Cup qualification journey and boosts morale ahead of the next challenge.
Next Match: Albania vs Czech Republic at Loro Boriçi
Albania will play their second World Cup qualifying match on March 7 at 18:00 against the Czech Republic at the iconic Loro Boriçi Stadium in Shkodër.
The match will be broadcast live on FSHF TV, and entry to the stadium will be free — an important opportunity for Albanian fans to support the women’s national team in person.
A strong turnout could provide the extra push needed in what promises to be a challenging encounter.
Growing Momentum for Women’s Football in Albania
Victories like this highlight the growing development of women’s football in Albania. With increased organization, better preparation, and committed leadership, the national team is steadily building credibility on the international stage.
Captain Megi Doçi’s standout performance will inspire young girls across Albania to pursue football, showing that dedication and resilience can lead to historic moments.
The journey to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is long, but Albania has taken the first step in the best possible way — with courage, belief, and a captain who leads by example.