Albania secured their first UEFA Nations League win with a 2-0 victory over Belarus in Group I. A crowd of 18,150 watched the national team claim the win in Italian coach Maran’s first official match in charge.
Belarus started strongly and controlled possession early in the game. The visitors held around 60% of the ball compared with Albania’s 40%.
However, the Red and Blacks gradually took control and created several chances. Their pressure paid off in the 34th minute when Kristjan Asllani opened the scoring from the penalty spot.
Captain Berat Djimshiti won the penalty, and Asllani converted it to give Albania the lead.
Two minutes later, Rey Manaj found a golden opportunity to double the advantage. However, he failed to make clean contact with the ball at the decisive moment.
Albania quickly added a second goal after the break. Ernest Muçi scored in the 46th minute after Elseid Hysaj provided the assist.
The Red and Blacks dominated the second half. Meanwhile, Belarus focused mainly on limiting further damage and struggled to create clear opportunities.
Coach Maran made several substitutions to keep the team fresh. However, Albania continued to create chances without adding another goal.
As a result, Albania secured a convincing victory both in terms of the score and their overall performance. The team could have extended its lead further after creating numerous opportunities.
In the other Group I match, Finland defeated San Marino 7-0. The hosts played with 10 men from the 51st minute.
Albania will return to action in three days. On Sept. 29, the Red and Blacks will travel to San Marino for their next Group I match.
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