Asllani Rescues Albania in 2-1 Nations League Scare

Albania Stumble Before San Marino Surge in Tense Nations League Clash

Albania survived a monumental scare to beat San Marino 2-1 in UEFA Nations League League C, needing a 93rd-minute Kristjan Asllani penalty to avoid humiliation against international football’s perennial minnows.

Albania’s Early Dominance Rewarded

The script seemed written when Asllani fired Albania ahead after just 11 minutes, capitalising on 70% first-half possession that saw the Eagles barrage San Marino’s goal with 12 shots. Yet their wastefulness – just 7 on target from 26 attempts – kept the door ajar.

San Marino’s Historic Fightback

Against all odds, Lorenzo Lazzari volleyed San Marino level in the 66th minute from Lorenzo Capicchioni’s cross, sending the 200 travelling fans into delirium. Suddenly Albania’s dominance became desperation as four yellow cards racked up amid ragged challenges.

Asllani’s Nerve Holds in Dramatic Finale

Just as San Marino dreamed of a first competitive point since 2020, VAR intervened in stoppage time to award Albania a penalty. Asllani, the Inter Milan midfielder, held his nerve to convert and break Sammarinese hearts. The stats told the story: Albania’s 562 passes to San Marino’s 256, but football’s beauty lies in its unpredictability.

For Albania, relief outweighs celebration – this was far from the statement they craised in League C. San Marino depart with pride intact, their spirit suggesting better days may come. The Nations League’s magic? It makes even mismatches unmissable drama.

Key Moments

11′ ⚽ Albania — Kristjan Asllani

66′ ⚽ San Marino — Lorenzo Lazzari (assist: Lorenzo·Capicchioni)

90+3′ ⚽ Albania — Kristjan Asllani