Albania vs Czechia
Watch Albania vs Czechia full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 18:45 (GMT) on 12th October 2023
The referee for this match is D. Makkelie
Game played at Air Albania Stadium
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship Qualifiers, Group E, Season 2024
Albania vs Czechia Full Match Reports
In a thrilling UEFA European Championship Qualifying (ECQ) match, Albania showcased their brilliance with star player Taulant Seferi leading the charge, netting two crucial goals. The final scoreline stood at 3-0 in favor of Albania as they clashed with the Czech Republic, achieving a remarkable four-point lead in Group E. This victory not only bolstered their position but also ended the Czech Republic’s impressive unbeaten streak, which had lasted 14 years.
In this historic encounter, the atmosphere inside the Arena Kombëtare was nothing short of electric. The Albanian crowd warmly welcomed their opponents, setting the stage for a captivating showdown. The game burst into life during the first half when Jasir Asani, stationed on the right flank, showcased his brilliance. Asani embarked on a dazzling run, niftily switched to his left foot, and unleashed a blistering shot from 25 yards. The ball sailed past Jiří Pavlenka, the Czech Republic’s goalkeeper, leaving the crowd in sheer amazement with an extraordinary goal.
Mojmír Chytil, the Czech striker, was eager to make a mark on the international stage, and he nearly found the net within the first 12 seconds of the match, testing the agility of Etrit Berisha, Albania’s goalkeeper. Later in the first half, Chytil appeared to have equalized for the Czech Republic. However, joy turned to disappointment as the goal was disallowed due to a handball, and Chytil was shown a second yellow card, resulting in his removal from the game.
Seizing the opportunity presented by the Czech Republic’s adversity, Taulant Seferi stepped up and scored shortly after the start of the second half. Seferi showcased composure and finesse as he found space in the box, slotting the ball past Pavlenka and extending Albania’s lead. As the second half unfolded, the Czech Republic’s vulnerability at the back became increasingly evident. Seferi, displaying an unorthodox finishing style, notched his second goal of the game. The crowd in Tirana erupted with joy, celebrating their team’s splendid performance.
While substitute Arbnor Muja came tantalizingly close to scoring his first international goal, he was denied by a late offside call. Nonetheless, this was an unforgettable night for Sylvinho’s triumphant team, marking a historic win in head-to-head encounters.
With this significant victory, their first in head-to-head meetings, and an impressive six-game unbeaten streak, Albania finds themselves in a commanding position to secure their second-ever spot in the UEFA European Championships (UEC). They now have the luxury of a friendly match against Bulgaria to continue building momentum. On the other hand, the Czech Republic must regroup and refocus for their upcoming ECQ match against the Faroe Islands, as they aim to bounce back from this setback.
Taulant Seferi, who played a pivotal role in Albania’s triumph, was rightfully named the Man of the Match, earning accolades for his outstanding performance.