Tirana won the first derby of the season against Partizani, prevailing 3-1 at “Air Albania” after a high-tempo match full of chances and twists until the closing minutes.
Early goal and Partizani response
The White and Blues made the best possible start when, in the 7th minute, Redon Xhixha struck powerfully from distance and beat Qirko for 1-0.
Partizani reacted quickly and looked for an equaliser. Aliu hit the post in the 15th minute, while the Reds increased the pressure in search of a leveller.
Himallari restores parity before the break
Partizani’s efforts paid off in the 36th minute, when Skuka broke down the right and set up Himallari, who sent the ball into the net for 1-1.
That was how the first half ended, leaving everything open for the second 45 minutes.
Chances at both ends, but Tirana strike late
The second half began with Tirana looking more threatening. Hazrollaj tried immediately after the restart, while Daci went close with a header over the bar.
Partizani also had their moment through Aliu, who hit the post again in the 52nd minute, in an episode that could have changed the course of the match.
Ilievski and Kish’s penalty settle it
As the match entered its decisive phase, Tirana found the go-ahead goal in the 79th minute. After combining with Kish, Ilievski went through one-on-one with Qirko and finished for 2-1.
A few minutes later, in the 83rd, Hazrollaj went down in the box after a challenge from Janjeva and referee Xhaja awarded a penalty. Kish was accurate from the spot in the 85th minute, sealing the score at 3-1.
In the remaining minutes, Partizani did not find the response they needed, while Tirana managed their advantage until the end.
The victory gives extra weight to the White and Blues in the first derby of the season and places the 3-1 success among the results that leave a mark on the capital rivalry.