In a thrilling League B Group B1 match held at EPET Arena in Prague, Albania emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Ukraine. Both teams fought hard to gain an edge, but it was Albania who secured the crucial points, thanks to goals from Ardian Ismajli and Jasir Asani. Ukraine’s Yukhym Konoplia managed to pull one back for his team, but the determined Albanian defense held firm to take the win. The result has a significant impact on the group standings, with Albania boosting their chances of progressing further.
Ukraine vs Albania Head-to-Head
Heading into this fixture, Ukraine held the historical advantage with five wins in previous encounters, while Albania had just one victory. Both teams were looking to improve their form in the group, with Ukraine aiming to break a streak of inconsistent results and Albania hoping to maintain their upward trajectory. Ukraine had scored 14 goals in prior matches against Albania, while Albania had managed 6.
Ukraine vs Albania Lineups
Here is the Ukraine National Football Team vs Albania National Football Team lineups today (Sep 8, 2024)
Ukraine (Coach: Serhiy Rebrov)
- Goalkeeper: Trubin
- Defenders: Konoplia, Zabarnyi, Matviyenko (C), Mykolenko
- Midfielders: Shaparenko, Brazhko, Sudakov, Tsygankov
- Forwards: Yaremchuk, Kabaiev
Substitutes: Bushchan (GK), Lunin (GK), Bondar, Talovierov, Sydorchuk, Stepanenko, Yarmolenko, Malinovskyi, Vanat, Zinchenko, Tymchyk, Pikhalonok
Albania (Coach: Sylvinho)
- Goalkeeper: Strakosha
- Defenders: Mitaj, Hysaj (C), Kumbulla, Ismajli
- Midfielders: Asani, N. Bajrami, Laçi, Ramadani, Asllani
- Forward: Manaj
Substitutes: Simoni (GK), Sherri (GK), Balliu, A. Bajrami, Hoxha, Uzuni, Mihaj, Seferi, M. Berisha, Hadroj, Spahiu, Abrashi
Ukraine vs Albania First Half Summary
The match began with both teams feeling each other out. Ukraine dominated early possession, but Albania’s defense remained disciplined. In the 27th minute, Roman Yaremchuk of Ukraine was penalized for a foul, giving Albania their first chance to counter. Despite some close efforts, neither side could break the deadlock in the first 45 minutes. The half ended 0-0, with both teams needing a breakthrough.
Ukraine vs Albania Second Half Summary
The second half exploded into life just four minutes after the restart when Yukhym Konoplia (49′) gave Ukraine the lead with a well-placed shot, assisted by Mykolenko. Albania responded quickly, and just five minutes later, Ardian Ismajli (54′) leveled the score with a headed goal from a corner delivered by Asllani.
Albania’s momentum continued, and in the 66th minute, Jasir Asani scored the winning goal after a brilliant assist from Rey Manaj. Ukraine struggled to create clear chances in response and despite late pressure, Albania’s defense, led by the commanding figure of Ismajli, held firm to see out the game.
Ukraine vs Albania Stats
| Ukraine vs Albania Stats | Ukraine | Albania |
| Possession (%) | 55 | 45 |
| Shots (on target) | 14 (5) | 11 (4) |
| Fouls | 18 | 15 |
| Corners | 6 | 4 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
| Offsides | 3 | 2 |
Ukraine vs Albania Timeline of Events
- 1′ – 30′: A tense start with both sides exchanging fouls and free-kicks. Albania missed a few early chances through Manaj and Asani.
- 31′ – 45′: Ukraine began to control the game, with efforts from Yaremchuk and Tsygankov being saved by Strakosha.
- 46′ – 60′: The second half began with fireworks. Konoplia opened the scoring (49’), but Albania quickly equalized through Ismajli (54’).
- 61′ – 70′: Albania’s quick counter-attacks paid off when Asani scored the winner (66′).
- 71′ – 90′: Ukraine pushed hard for an equalizer, but Albania held firm. Strakosha’s saves and Ismajli’s defensive blocks were crucial in the closing stages.
- 90′ – Full time: Albania managed the clock well, securing a hard-fought victory.
Ukraine National Football Team vs Albania National Football Team Impact on Points Table
Albania’s win significantly boosted their standing in Group B1 of the UEFA Nations League. They moved up in the table, positioning themselves as potential group leaders. Ukraine’s loss, however, dented their chances of progressing, leaving them in a precarious situation.
Ukraine vs Albania Man of the Match
Ardian Ismajli (Albania) was undoubtedly the standout performer, not only scoring the crucial equalizer but also putting in a defensive masterclass. His leadership at the back helped Albania secure all three points.
Albania’s 2-1 victory over Ukraine in Prague was a testament to their resilience and ability to seize key moments. Ukraine will rue missed chances, but Albania’s clinical finishing and solid defensive display made the difference. The result keeps Albania’s hopes alive in the Nations League, while Ukraine will need to regroup for their upcoming fixtures.
