The Albanian women’s team kicked off their 2027 World Cup qualifying campaign in the best possible way, securing a 2-1 away victory against Montenegro and earning three very important points. Both goals for the squad led by Armir Grima were scored by captain Megi Doçi, in a match that delivered not only three goals but plenty of excitement throughout the 90 minutes.
Coach Grima fielded the following starting lineup: Antigoni Hyska (GK), Klea Hamonikaj, Arbiona Bajraktari, Alma Hilaj, Arbenita Curraj, Ezmiralda Franja, Mikaela Metalla, Fortesa Berisha, Ilarja Zarka, Qëndresa Krasniqi, and captain Megi Doçi.
The first 10 minutes were balanced, with both teams controlling play. Montenegro created a dangerous chance, but Hyska handled it well.
Albania’s first clear opportunity came in the 17th minute when Fortesa Berisha entered the box from the right and took a shot, but the Montenegrin goalkeeper made the save. In the following minutes, the Red and Blacks had several good chances to take the lead through Berisha, Krasniqi, and Doçi, but could not finish. The first half ended 0-0.
The second half started with a dangerous moment for the hosts, but Albania was lucky to avoid conceding. In the 51st minute, Albania came close to scoring: Krasniqi crossed into the box to find Doçi, who headed on goal, only for the goalkeeper to make another save.
Minutes later, the team missed another good chance with Franja. After a nice combination, Krasniqi headed the ball to Franja, who shot over the crossbar.
Albania continued pressing for the lead, creating another golden opportunity in the 64th minute. Krasniqi passed to Fortesa, but the shot was blocked by the goalkeeper. The ball remained in the box, and Doçi tried immediately, but the Montenegrin keeper was decisive, punching it away.
At Albania’s moment of best play, Montenegro took the lead in the 67th minute with a goal from captain Kuc.
Albania quickly responded just three minutes later, with captain Doçi scoring the equalizer. Krasniqi delivered a perfect ball into the box, and Doçi was in the right place to make it 1-1.
In the 76th minute, Albania took the lead. Once again, Doçi was the heroine, scoring a stunning free-kick goal to seal the 2-1 victory.
It was a win full of character, confidence, and determination, giving Albania the perfect start to their campaign.
The Albanian women’s team will play their second World Cup qualifying match against Czechia on March 7 at 18:00 at the “Loro Boriçi” Stadium. Admission is free, and the match will be broadcast live on FSHF TV.
