June 11 is one of the most important dates in Albanian football history, marking one of its greatest achievements: Albania’s historic participation in the finals of a European Championship.
Ten years after that landmark appearance, FSHF TV presents a documentary featuring the stories and emotions of the generation that wrote the most significant chapter in Albanian football. On the tenth anniversary of EURO 2016, the project takes viewers back through the national team’s journey to France—from the most difficult moments to the success that united Albanians around the world—reviving memories of an unforgettable summer.
The documentary includes exclusive testimonies from the key protagonists of that historic adventure. Albanian Football Association President Armand Duka reflects on the challenges that accompanied the road to Albania’s first qualification for a major tournament, as well as the significance and impact of reaching the final stage of Europe’s most prestigious football competition.
Former head coach Gianni De Biasi discusses the philosophy that built a competitive and united team, while also revealing some of the most difficult moments of that period—from the decision to leave four players out of the squad, to benching captain Lorik Cana against Romania, and the conflicts he experienced with Shkëlzen Gashi and Taulant Xhaka after the match against Switzerland.
A special place in the documentary is dedicated to the memories of former captain Lorik Cana, a symbol of that team and one of the most beloved figures among Albanian supporters, even though his EURO 2016 campaign did not unfold as he had dreamed. Through his recollections, as well as those of former players Andi Lila and Taulant Xhaka, viewers will gain insight into behind-the-scenes stories, dressing-room emotions, and the sacrifices that accompanied this extraordinary journey.
The documentary also features Armando Sadiku, scorer of Albania’s first and only goal at the UEFA European Championship in France 2016. His goal against Romania, which secured Albania’s first-ever victory at a European Championship, is revisited through the striker’s own memories as one of the most important moments in Albanian sporting history.
Also appearing is Elseid Hysaj, one of the key players of that team, who shares the emotions of representing his country on Europe’s biggest football stage. Hysaj first wore the captain’s armband in the match against Switzerland ten years ago, despite being only 22 years old at the time.
Viewers will also have the opportunity to relive the atmosphere among Albanian supporters, the extraordinary enthusiasm that surrounded the team, and the impact that qualification had on strengthening belief in Albanian football.
This documentary is more than a look back at the results and matches of a decade ago—it is a tribute to a generation that made history and inspired millions of Albanians. Ten years later, EURO 2016 remains one of the proudest chapters in Albanian sport, and the stories of its protagonists serve as a reminder that some dreams, when believed in strongly enough, can become reality.
“10 Years Since EURO 2016” can be watched on FSHF TV and on the Albanian Football Association’s official YouTube channel.
