“People predicted we would lose heavily in the first game of Euro Cup, even more in the second, and not show up for the third,” said Sylvinho, Albania’s coach. However, they did show up throughout their time here. Thousands came to enjoy the tournament, and their team came to compete. They went up against Spain, giving their all and ultimately losing, but not by a larger margin than other top footballing nations. Departing with pride, Sylvinho admitted, “I lost many nights’ sleep, but it was worth it.”
A single early goal by Ferran Torres settled the match, securing a victory that Albania resisted until the end. Afterwards, they stood before their fans, clad in red with white qeleshes, and applauded together, amid swirling smoke. “You can’t imagine what that feels like,” said Sylvinho.
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Advancing to the second round was beyond their reach, especially given their group with Italy, Croatia, and Spain—teams Sylvinho believed could reach the quarterfinals, semifinals, or even the final. They understood this before arriving.
Only a win would have sufficed, but knowing Spain was already through provided some hope. Sylvinho had remarked that even Spain’s B team could reach the final and be favorites. Aymeric Laporte was the sole starter from Spain’s original lineup, with the XI having collectively played just 250 minutes. Yet, their talent remained undeniable.
On a night marred by a young fan running onto the pitch and flares that may result in fines, Albania didn’t secure victory, but Sylvinho departed with invaluable experience he wouldn’t trade for anything.
Meanwhile, Spain departed with a perfect record—nine points from three matches, no goals conceded for the first time, with all players except the third-choice goalkeeper, Álex Remiro, having played.
Albania, featuring players from eight different leagues, stands out as the most diverse team in the competition. They’ve shown courage throughout, scoring early against Italy and pushing late against Croatia and Spain. Initially, they fiercely contested Spain’s attempts to advance, but Dani Olmo’s precise pass to Ferran Torres changed the game early on, putting Spain ahead after just 13 minutes.
Olmo continued to dictate play, finding space effectively, while full-backs Jesús Navas and Álex Grimaldo impressed with their deliveries, despite lacking the aggression of others like Dani Carvajal and Marc Cucurella.
Navas, at 38, remains energetic, delivering a pinpoint cross for Mikel Merino, whose header was saved by Thomas Strakosha. Albania showed flashes of promise, with David Raya denying Kristjan Asllani’s attempt just before halftime.
Spain maintained control, with Grimaldo’s crosses posing constant threats. Torres missed a chance to score a second, heading over from a curling delivery, while Merino’s shot sailed high moments later. Early in the second half, Joselu narrowly missed with a Zlatan-esque volley from Grimaldo’s cross.
Despite Albania’s resilience and Armando Broja’s near-goal after coming on, Spain’s defense held firm. As time dwindled, Albania, needing two goals to advance, fought relentlessly but fell short.
Ultimately, Albania departed the Euro Cup early yet proudly, having recognized their challenge from the outset. Their spirited effort left a lasting impression, departing with heads held high amid cheers from their devoted supporters.
