Beselidhja Win Albania Super Cup with 82-71 Victory Over Tirana Neptun

Beselidhja captured the Albania Super Cup with an 82-71 victory over Tirana Neptun on October 9, 2026. In a game that served as the official curtain-raiser to the Albanian basketball season, Beselidhja used a balanced attack and a dominant fourth quarter to secure the trophy. The win marks an early statement of intent from Beselidhja, while Tirana Neptun will take lessons from a spirited performance.

The Super Cup is a single-match showcase between the previous season's league champion and cup winner, and both sides treated it with the intensity of a playoff game. Beselidhja's experience and depth proved decisive, especially in the closing period when they pulled away for good.

Match Overview

Beselidhja started the game with purpose, taking a 22-18 lead after the first quarter. Their offense flowed through their big men and guards, creating open looks both inside and out. Tirana Neptun responded in the second quarter, but Beselidhja maintained a slim 42-37 halftime advantage. The game remained tight in the third, with Beselidhja leading 60-54 heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter belonged to Beselidhja. They outscored Tirana Neptun 22-17, extending their lead and never allowing a late comeback. The final score of 82-71 reflected Beselidhja's control over the final ten minutes, as they hit key shots and converted free throws to seal the Super Cup title.

Key Moments

• First quarter: Beselidhja raced to a 22-18 lead with strong inside-out play.
• Second quarter: Both teams traded baskets, but Beselidhja held a 42-37 halftime lead.
• Third quarter: Beselidhja maintained their advantage at 60-54, withstanding a Tirana Neptun run.
• Fourth quarter: Beselidhja closed with a 22-17 period to secure the 82-71 win and the trophy.

Tactical Story

Beselidhja's victory was built on offensive efficiency and rebounding. They shot well from the field and consistently attacked the offensive glass, creating second-chance points. Their defense also stepped up in the fourth quarter, forcing Tirana Neptun into tough shots and limiting their transition opportunities. Beselidhja's ability to execute in crunch time was the difference.

Tirana Neptun competed hard for three quarters but ran out of gas in the fourth. Their outside shooting was streaky, and they struggled to contain Beselidhja's interior scoring. Despite the loss, Tirana Neptun showed enough to suggest they will be competitive in the upcoming league season.

Standout Players

Beselidhja were led by forward Ergis Kola, who scored 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Kola was a force in the paint and hit several crucial baskets in the fourth quarter. Guard Arber Hoxha added 18 points and 6 assists, controlling the tempo and making smart decisions throughout.

For Tirana Neptun, Ardit Hoxha (no relation) had a team-high 18 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Redon Lika chipped in 14 points, but Tirana Neptun's bench was outscored by Beselidhja's reserves. Ardit Hoxha's scoring kept Tirana within reach, but he lacked enough help down the stretch.

Season Impact and What's Next

Winning the Albania Super Cup gives Beselidhja an early trophy and a psychological edge heading into the regular season. The club will now turn its attention to the league campaign, where they will be among the favorites. For Tirana Neptun, the defeat is a learning experience, but they will take confidence from pushing a strong Beselidhja side for much of the game. The two teams will meet again in league play, and that matchup will be one to watch.