Albania Dashes Jordan’s Hopes with a 4-2 Friendly Triumph in Tirana

Match Snapshot

In Tirana, Jordan’s national team were beaten 4-2 by Albania in a friendly on Tuesday night, as both sides tune up for the next batch of duties during the current international window.

Key Moments and Analysis

Jordan showed intent early, taking the lead in the 28th minute when Nazar Rashdan unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box. Albania equalized in first-half stoppage time via an own goal by Mohammad Abu Al-Nadi after sustained pressure from the left.

In the second half, Albania seized control with greater collective intensity. Striker Armando Broja, on loan from Chelsea and playing for Burnley, found the net in the 65th minute to give Albania the lead. Ten minutes later, Arber Hoxha extended the advantage, and Nedim Bajrami added a fourth in the 79th minute following a well-worked build-up.

Jordan pulled one back in the 90th minute through Ali Alwan as the clock wound down, but Albania closed out the win. The match underscored Jordan’s defensive vulnerabilities from crosses and Albania’s sharp attacking movement in the final third.

Jordan’s coach Jamal Al-Salami fielded a strong starting XI with Mousa Al-Temari and Ali Alwan deployed wide and Yazan Al-Naimat up top, while Mohammad Abu Al-Nadi anchored the attack. Substitutions added fresh legs but could not overturn the deficit.

For Albania, the result boosts confidence ahead of upcoming European commitments. The team had a rest period during the window before resuming Euro 2026 qualifying tasks.

Punchline The scoreboard line is 4-2, but the real tension was whether Jordan would remember to defend crosses or if Albania would remember to celebrate four goals with a proper after-dinner dance. Spoiler: both happened.