Luxembourg’s national team ended their international season on a high note, defeating Albania 1-0 in a friendly match on Saturday evening in Tirana. The only goal of the match came early, with Danel Sinani finding the net in the 8th minute after a strong solo run and assist from Aiman Dardari.
Despite Albania dominating possession for stretches of the match, particularly in the first half, the Red Lions took advantage of their chances and showed greater efficiency in front of goal. Luxembourg’s disciplined defensive effort and improved second-half performance allowed them to see out the win.
Jeff Strasser made several changes from the previous friendly against Italy, including the return of Aiman Dardari from a minor injury and a first senior start for young Enzo Duarte. Tiago Pereira replaced Anthony Moris in goal.
The hosts started brightly in front of their home crowd, pressing forward from the outset. However, Luxembourg struck first: after clever individual play, Dardari set up a free Danel Sinani, who slotted the ball into the far corner to put Luxembourg ahead with their first real chance.
Following the opening goal, Luxembourg briefly lost their rhythm, while Albania continued to press and test Pereira with a powerful long-range effort from Asllani. After a balanced spell with few major chances, Albania ramped up the pressure before the break and almost found an equaliser, but Luxembourg managed to keep their 1-0 lead going into half-time.
Jeff Strasser made three changes at the break, bringing on Florian Bohnert, Enes Mahmutovic, and Edvin Muratovic for Laurent Jans, Mica Pinto, and Enzo Duarte. Luxembourg improved after the restart and created several opportunities for a second goal. In the 62nd minute, Sinani once again threatened with a precise low shot, forcing Albanian keeper Sherri into an impressive save.
As the match entered its final phase, Strasser used his remaining substitutions to freshen the team. Albania pressed hard for an equaliser, but Luxembourg’s defence stood firm and Pereira kept a clean sheet. The Red Lions held on for a narrow victory that sends them into their summer break on a positive note.
