U n EFA: Albanians live with football, fans fill stadiums in Euro-U-17 finals

Below the complete article published by W EFA:

First Final Tour of U n EFA in Albania has developed into an extraordinary atmosphere and with large crowds of fans, evidence of the transformational impact football has had in the country.

When Albania Faced Portugal at U European Championship EFA for under 17 years of age in 2025, a crowd of 8,600 fans significantly increased the significance of the event and ranked the opening match among the top ten matches in the history of the tournament.

The atmosphere was unforgettable both inside and outside the “National Arena” in Tirana, which opened in 2019 and was quickly returned to a central point in the city. For the EURO U17 of 2025, it became a sign of what would follow, with loud and large crowds becoming a distinctive feature of the tournament.

T IRANA, ALBANIA MEY 19: Players of both side EFA European Under-17 Championship 2024/25 Group A matter between Albania and Portugal at the National Arena on May 19, 2025 in Tirana, Albania. (Photo by Ben McSean ) Sportsfile/ U n EFA via Getty Images)

ELBASAN, ALBANIA MEY 22: Fans at the U EFA European Under-17 Championship match between Albania and German at Elbasan Arena on May 22, 2025 in Elbasan, Albania. (Photo by Ben McSean ) Sportsfile/ U n EFA via Getty Images)

A beautiful feeling

“The red ones helped us a lot, especially in the first part,” said Albania's captain, Chris Gecaj, explaining how their support gave to the team “as they became the first players ever representing the national in a final phase. “gave us motivation to play. We loved playing in front of them. ”

The prominent attacker Gabriel Tower agreed, saying: “to play in that stadium was a beautiful feeling. Seeing so many fans cheering on us was something special. ”

In addition to Albania's fascinating capital, the tour has also taken place in picturesque places in the ancient towns of Durres, Elbasan, and Rrogozyna. Before the end of the second day of the games, these stadiums had already attracted three of the ten largest crowds to the history of the stage of the tournament, for fights that were not involved in the host team.

Passion and Positiveness

I wouldn't say I'm surprised because we Albanians love football and we always follow the game with passion,” says Armand Duka, president of the Albanian Football Federation.

But I'm certainly pleased with the big turnout in every city. It has been wonderful to see so many young fans and families enjoying the games and showing real enthusiasm for the” tournament.

“Albanians live and breathe in football, so it was natural to see live crowds, positive energy and a holiday atmosphere both within the stadiums and in the surrounding areas. ”

Inspiring the New Generation

Andy Tufa, sports journalist on the national TV channel Top Channel, is impressive. “Atmosphera was truly amazing,” says Tufa. “E feels everywhere in cities especially in schools, where young people have filled stadiums. ”

Emphasised and placed in the heart of the city, the National Arena “” of Tirana is the pearl in the stadium's crown. In 2022, that was the scene of U's first final EFA Conference League, giving thousands the opportunity to experience for the first time a major European football final in their country.

A Symbol of the Resurrection

The new facilities have improved the experience during match day, but this complex goes far beyond a sports field, becoming a symbol of the FSHF's strategic plan for developing national football infrastructure and a catalyst for the revival of the local economy.

“has restored life in the area normally, is the best place in Tirana,” explains team fan Albi Fagu, speaking as his children enjoy the pursuit of an interesting group phase between Germany and Portugal, as they were excited to meet some of the new German prospects in the city.

Before, the area was slightly empty because the stadium was old and was not connected to business activities. Now, nightlife, restaurants, and everything else happens around this stadium. It's better for fans and it's going to get their work back. ”

Pride and a Bright Football Future

Albania's campaign ended at the end of the group phase, but the “National Arena” will welcome the semifinals between title holders Italy and Portugal on Thursday, before organising the final on Sunday.

Furthermore, the Euro-27 final for under 21 years of age will also take place there, when the tournament is held for the first time in Albania, co-organised with Serbia.

Playing at the national stadium, Albania's largest, is something that fills us with pride,” says U17 coach Andrea Tedesco. “It was a great emotion for me, players and technical staff because of the huge number of fans very exciting for us. Their presence in the stadium made this journey even more beautiful. ”

Duka, who has used the moment created by the stadium's opening to oversee the creation of initiatives including programmes on the basis, partnerships with schools and youth academies, also describes finals as “a beautiful football experience”.

“We are proud that the Albanian Football Federation has organised not only a well-structed tour, but also a warm and hospitable environment for players, officials and fans alike,” he says. “This EURO U17 has truly captured public interest and has brought great energy to our soccer community. ”