North Macedonia U16 Women and Andorra U16 Women Share Points in 2-2 Friendly
North Macedonia’s under-16 women’s national team played out an entertaining 2-2 draw with Andorra’s under-16 women’s side in an international friendly on May 8, 2026. The match, held at a neutral training ground, showcased the development of both nations’ youth programmes, with dramatic swings in momentum throughout the 90 minutes.
Match Overview
Both teams entered the fixture looking to gain valuable international experience. North Macedonia, traditionally stronger in Balkan football, started brightly, but Andorra showed resilience to fight back twice. The result was a fair reflection of an open, competitive encounter where young talent on both sides impressed.
Key Moments
- 16th minute: North Macedonia took the lead through a well-worked team move. Midfielder Marija Stojanovska finished from close range after a low cross from the right.
- 29th minute: Andorra equalized against the run of play. Forward Marta Soler latched onto a long ball and lobbed the onrushing goalkeeper – 1-1.
- 51st minute: North Macedonia restored their advantage when defender Elena Petrovska headed home from a corner kick.
- 67th minute: Andorra leveled for the second time. A free kick from Claudia Martinez curled over the wall and into the top corner – 2-2.
- 80th minute: Both teams had late chances; North Macedonia hit the crossbar, while Andorra saw a goal-line clearance preserve the draw.
Tactical Story
The match was played at a high tempo, typical of youth internationals. North Macedonia sought to control possession through short passing, while Andorra favoured direct counter-attacks, often bypassing midfield. The game ebbed and flowed, with neither side able to hold the lead for long. Defensive organization improved for both teams as the match wore on, leading to a tense final ten minutes.
Standout Players
- Marta Soler (Andorra U16 W): A constant menace with her pace, scoring once and assisting the second goal.
- Marija Stojanovska (North Macedonia U16 W): She opened the scoring and dictated play from midfield before being substituted late on.
- Claudia Martinez (Andorra U16 W): Her curling free kick was the best goal of the game, showcasing set-piece quality.
Match Significance
For both nations, friendly matches like this are vital for player development and building squad cohesion. North Macedonia U16 women will take positives from their attacking threat, while Andorra U16 women will be encouraged by their character in coming from behind twice. These are the building blocks for future senior international success.