Albania U-19 played its first friendly match against Italy U-19 this afternoon. In the match held at the Novarello Sporting Center, the team led by coach Julian Ahmataj was defeated with a score of 4-1.
The Albanian coach started the match with the following lineup: Taho (GK), Avdullari, Sina, Gecaj, Shpuza, Gashi, Huqi, L. Krasniqi, B. Krasniqi, Arifi (C), Malaj.
Albania took the lead first, thanks to a goal scored by Besalet Krasniqi in the 8th minute. However, the Azzurri equalized three minutes later through Cama and then turned the game around in the 17th minute with a goal from Federico Coletta. The home team added a third goal in the 41st minute with Artesani. Coach Ahmataj made two substitutions shortly before the end of the first half, bringing on El Malem and Sylejmani. The first half ended 3-1 in favor of Italy.
The second half started well for the Italians, who scored their fourth goal through Atzeni. The Albanian coach made more changes in this half as well, introducing fresh legs like Duka, Hoxha, and Lataj. Despite efforts from the Albanian team, the score remained unchanged until the final whistle.
The Albanian side will play the second scheduled friendly against Italy on Thursday at 11:00 AM. These two matches are important as part of the preparation for the European Championship qualifiers for this age group.
