The program “Drita” on TV Spektri dedicated a special documentary to the football tournament held in the Presheva Valley, fully supported by the Albanian Football Association.
The journalist and host of the program, Burhan Behluli, closely followed the entire journey of the tournament, which lasted five days and concluded with the historic visit of President Armand Duka to Bujanoc and Presheva, as well as the tournament finals, which saw the participation of over 350 children aged 7 to 13.
In the interview with journalist Behluli, President Duka shared his emotions from the visit to Presheva and Bujanoc, highlighting the importance of cooperation with the local community, support for children and local talents, and spoke about the UEFA U-21 European Championship 2027, which will be held in Albania and Serbia.
FULL INTERVIEW
The Presheva Valley Tournament supported by the Albanian Football Asssociation
The goal of the Albanian Football Association, its main objective, is to motivate children wherever they live to play football. This tournament takes place beyond Albania’s state borders, it has its own specific context, but it has no political intent, other than to promote football.
Football speaks only one language: the language of sport, the language of the ball, the language of goals, respect for teammates, opponents, the game, and oneself. These are precisely the values we want to promote.
Through this respect and through the game, we aim to build bridges of communication, convey messages of peace and cooperation, and provide the best possible education for our children, wherever they may live.
As we conclude this symbolic tournament, and I won’t claim that it has developed football in Presheva, this is just the beginning. I repeat: we can consider it the start of a new kind of organization. We’ve also had discussions with all football-related actors in the Valley, with whom we’ll develop new collaborative projects, aiming to be closer to children, talents, and to improve their sporting lives.
First time in Presheva and Bujanoc – What are your first impressions of the visit?
Fantastic. As I said, I’m not someone who relies much on speeches or oratory, maybe more on action. That’s why I used the word “fantastic”, because that’s what I felt.
I was genuinely moved, watching the children, seeing their joy and happiness while taking part in the tournament and their love for the game of football. Besides the joy I got from the children and their emotions, I really don’t need to say more — that sums it all up.
Meeting with the mayors in Presheva and Bujanoc
Yes, I met with them and I thank them for the warm welcome Arbër and Ardita, along with their teams and the sports staff. What we discussed in the office, and what I can say publicly, is that we’re not here as state representatives of anyone. We’re here as representatives of football, of the Football Federation, and in cooperation with everyone, to help the children of the Valley play football.
To create, as much as possible, better conditions. I believe we will build sustainable projects for the future.
Meeting with the children
Their desires are clear: they want better infrastructure. It’s not like I can promise that in a single meeting, but as I said, if we manage to establish a sustainable relationship with the sporting community here, we won’t just support infrastructure. We’ll also train coaches through the Football Federation, help with supplies such as sports kits, balls — things we’ve done before, but now in a more organized way, and definitely in cooperation with other football federations.
The most important thing is that the kids keep playing football. That’s what I told them too. Of course, I wish they all become professionals, but that’s not realistic. The key is to continue playing. I encouraged them to stick with it, because it’s not just about becoming a pro or winning, it’s about the education they gain through football, preparing them for life.
I even asked the kids: “Are you better off playing football or playing PlayStation?” And I was happy when they said, “We’re better off with football.” That’s our goal.
Inclusion of children from the Presheva Valley in the National Teams
Our policy is that the door is open to any Albanian who wants to, who has the talent, the opportunity, and the desire to play for the National Teams. In our tournaments and projects, they are definitely invited.
What we need here is organization and proper structuring of football in the area.
UEFA U-21 European Championship 2027
I’ve shared my view and position on the U-21 European Championship: It’s a huge opportunity for Albanians and for Albania to organize a high-level tournament — the biggest after the senior European Championship.
This is the biggest or best-organized youth tournament. It’s an opportunity that everyone should seize — especially the sports committee in Albania, to benefit from everything it brings. And why not, Serbia too.
The first and most important benefit is sporting: we benefit by promoting football, promoting youth, and improving infrastructure. But if, through this game and this event, we also manage to send messages of peace, cooperation, and build bridges of communication, then why not enjoy all the possible benefits?
No one should view a sports activity through a political lens. It should be seen for what it is: football, and the positive message it carries — a game that has consistently proven throughout its history that it can transcend many barriers.
