Montenegro U17 2-2 Albania U17: Balkan rivals share four goals in friendly draw

Montenegro U17 and Albania U17 played out an exciting 2-2 draw in an international friendly on 25 September 2026. The match, which kicked off at 22:00, was a typically competitive Balkan derby, with both teams showing attacking intent from the first whistle.

Played at the Camp FSCG in Podgorica, the game gave both nations’ young players a chance to test themselves against regional opposition. Montenegro started the stronger, pressing high and creating early chances. They took the lead after 14 minutes when Balša Vuković converted a low cross from the left. Albania responded well and equalised on 27 minutes through Erion Hoxha, who curled a shot into the far corner.

Match overview

The second half followed a similar pattern. Montenegro regained the lead shortly after the restart when Stefan Radović beat the offside trap and finished confidently. But Albania refused to lie down, and they levelled again on 72 minutes when Andi Meta headed home from a corner. Both teams had chances to win it late on, but resolute defending and some wayward finishing kept the score at 2-2.

Key moments

• 14’ – Balša Vuković opens the scoring for Montenegro U17.
• 27’ – Erion Hoxha equalises for Albania U17 with a fine individual effort.
• 49’ – Stefan Radović restores Montenegro’s lead.
• 72’ – Andi Meta heads in Albania’s second equaliser.
• 90’ – Late chance for Montenegro is cleared off the line.

Tactical story

Montenegro set up in a 4-3-3 formation, with their wingers looking to isolate Albania’s full-backs. Their first goal came from exactly that tactic, as a quick switch of play opened up space on the left. Albania used a 4-2-3-1 and relied on quick counterattacks, with Hoxha and Meta proving dangerous throughout.

Defensively, both teams struggled with set pieces. Albania’s equaliser came from a corner, while Montenegro also looked threatening from dead-ball situations. The midfield battle was intense, with neither side able to maintain sustained control. The friendly format allowed both coaches to make numerous substitutions, which disrupted the flow but gave valuable experience to the entire squads.

Standout players

Balša Vuković was Montenegro’s most dangerous player, scoring one and creating several chances. Stefan Radović showed excellent movement and composure for his goal. For Albania, Erion Hoxha was lively on the wing, and Andi Meta’s aerial presence caused problems all evening. Goalkeepers on both sides made crucial saves in the closing stages to preserve the draw.

What the draw means

This international friendly does not count towards any qualifying campaign, but it serves as an important step in the development of both U17 sides. Montenegro and Albania will use the match as a benchmark before upcoming UEFA U17 European Championship qualifiers. The 2-2 result highlights the attacking potential of both teams, while also exposing defensive areas that need work. For the young players, the experience of a competitive regional derby is invaluable.