The Albanian U-19 women’s national team played today the first match of the second round of the European Championship in Group B4 against Montenegro. At “Elbasan Arena” stadium, the girls were defeated with a score of 2-1. Albania’s only goal was scored by the team captain, Xhesika Ndoj.
Coach Luçije Gjini started the match with the following starting lineup against Montenegro: Rajmonda Spahiu (GK), Herta Hasaj, Angela Nika, Klea Alushi, Xhesika Ndoj (C), Arjela Lako, Klesta Ago, Rosela Vasa, Juarda Aliaj, Era Methoxha, Stela Vata.
Albania started the match very well and won a penalty in the opening minutes. Xhesika Ndoj took the shot from the penalty spot, but the opposing goalkeeper saved it. However, the goal came shortly after, with Xhesika Ndoj once again the protagonist, scoring a stunning goal in the 16th minute.
Albania’s lead was short-lived, as Montenegro quickly equalized with a penalty. It was Katarina Čađenović who scored accurately in the 19th minute. Montenegro took the lead in the 25th minute with a goal from Tatjana Osmajić.
During the first half, Albania came very close to scoring a second goal with Klesta Ago, but the striker’s shot was denied by the post.
The second half started with two substitutions for the red and black team. Juarda Aliaj and Klea Alushi were replaced by Adela Qose and Stiljana Guga.
The girls pushed until the end to equalize the match but without success. In the 79th minute, Albania was very close to scoring, with attempts from Ndoj and Hasaj, but the opposing goalkeeper remained unbeatable.
In the end, the match ended with a 2-1 victory for Montenegro.
Also today, the other group match between Northern Ireland and Azerbaijan was played. At the “House of Football,” Northern Ireland secured a dominant 4-0 victory.
Albania’s women’s team will play its second match against Azerbaijan on February 21 at “Egnatia Arena” stadium at 14:30. The other Group B4 match, between Northern Ireland and Montenegro, will be played on the same day at the “House of Football” at 11:30.
