Germany U21’s Clinical Second Half Display Leads to 2-0 Victory Over Albania in International Friendly

Match Overview and Significance

The international friendly between Albania U21 and Germany U21 took place at the Elbasan Arena, carrying special significance as Albania, along with Serbia, have been selected as joint hosts for the 2027 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

First Half Deadlock

The first half saw Germany dominating possession but struggling to break through Albania’s resilient defence, with the score remaining 0-0 at the interval.

Second Half Breakthrough

The game transformed after the break when German coach Di Salvo made wholesale changes, introducing ten new players. The impact was immediate, with Union Berlin striker Ilyas Ansah marking his U21 debut with a clinical finish in the 48th minute.

The German momentum continued as Dženan Pejčinović doubled the lead in the 52nd minute with a composed finish past the Albanian goalkeeper.

Match Context and Future Implications

This match marked Germany U21’s first appearance since their dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to England in the European Championship final. Prior to that loss, Di Salvo’s side had maintained an impressive run of form. The match against Albania served as an opportunity to reset, integrate new players, and begin building towards the next European Championship cycle.

Looking Ahead

Germany’s focus now shifts to their next challenge: the commencement of their 2027 European Championship qualifying campaign against Latvia in Rostock on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Albania will conclude their international break with another friendly against Switzerland U21s on Monday, 8 September.