Ukraine secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Albania on Matchday 6 of the UEFA Nations League 2024. The visitors started the game on fire, scoring twice within the opening 10 minutes. Oleksandr Zinchenko opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a well-timed strike, followed shortly by Roman Yaremchuk doubling Ukraine’s lead in the 10th minute. Both goals showcased Ukraine’s clinical finishing in the early stages of the match.
Albania, however, refused to go down without a fight. Despite trailing for most of the game, they found a lifeline in the 75th minute when Nedim Bajrami struck, igniting hope for the home side. However, Ukraine’s defense held firm in the final minutes, ensuring they walked away with all three points.
Statistically, Albania controlled more possession, holding 55% compared to Ukraine’s 45%. However, Ukraine were more efficient in attack, registering 14 shots to Albania’s 8 and hitting the target 8 times compared to Albania’s 2. Albania completed 505 passes to Ukraine’s 425, but the visitors’ direct approach proved more effective.
The match saw a physical battle as well, with Albania committing 12 fouls while Ukraine committed 17. In the end, Ukraine’s early goals and solid defensive effort in the closing stages were enough to secure the win and wrap up their UEFA Nations League group stage campaign on a high note.
