In a tightly contested league match held at the Demush Mavraj Istog on 20 October 2024, Istogu 03 U15 emerged victorious with a 1-0 win against Ardhmeria Deçan. The match kicked off at 11:15 am and saw a spirited performance from both sides, but it was Alban Ferataj's stunning free-kick that ultimately decided the outcome.
Istogu 03 U15 lined up in a 4-1-2-3 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while also providing width and attacking options. Dren Zekaj took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Bajram Kelmendi on the right, Arbër Jahaj on the left, and the central defensive pairing of Erblin Osmanaj and Leon Buleshkaj. In front of the defence, Alfred Alijaj operated as the holding midfielder, tasked with breaking up opposition play and linking defence to attack. The attacking trio featured Lirak Fetahaj on the right, Alban Ferataj on the left, and Melos Avdylaj supporting striker Enis Osmanaj at the centre, with Valton Maraj providing additional attacking threat from the left forward position.
The substitutes for Istogu 03 U15 included Eduart Ferataj, Loren Tahiraj, Sebastian Kolaj, Donart Osmanaj, and Januz Idrizaj, who were poised to make an impact from the bench.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Alban Ferataj who made his mark early on, receiving a yellow card in the 11th minute for a foul. However, he quickly redeemed himself by scoring a magnificent direct free-kick from long range in the 21st minute, sending the home crowd into raptures. His right-footed strike curled beautifully into the top corner, leaving the Ardhmeria Deçan goalkeeper with no chance.
As the first half progressed, Ferataj continued to be involved, though he sent a subsequent attempt high over the bar in the 28th minute. The half concluded with Istogu 03 U15 holding a slender lead, and they went into the break with a sense of optimism.
The second half saw Istogu make tactical substitutions, with Eduart Ferataj and Loren Tahiraj coming on for Valton Maraj and Melos Avdylaj respectively in the 36th minute. The changes aimed to freshen up the attack and maintain pressure on the visitors. Dren Zekaj showcased his goalkeeping prowess just before half-time, diving at the feet of an Ardhmeria Deçan attacker to keep his clean sheet intact.
As the match resumed, Lirak Fetahaj had a chance to extend the lead but his effort went wide in the 49th minute. The home side continued to defend resolutely, but in the 62nd minute, they opted for another change, bringing on Sebastian Kolaj for the influential Alban Ferataj. Shortly after, Donart Osmanaj replaced Bajram Kelmendi in the 66th minute, further solidifying their tactical approach.
The match took a tense turn in the 68th minute when Erblin Osmanaj received a yellow card for serious foul play, adding to the pressure on Istogu as they sought to maintain their lead. As the clock ticked down, Enis Osmanaj had a crucial opportunity to double the advantage in the 70th minute, but his shot was saved, keeping the visitors in the game.
In the 71st minute, Januz Idrizaj was introduced, taking the place of Enis Osmanaj as Istogu looked to see out the match. The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought victory for Istogu 03 U15, with Alban Ferataj earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his decisive contribution. The result not only boosts Istogu's confidence but also highlights their resilience in a competitive league encounter.
