Nedim Bajrami’s goal, which stunned Italy just 23 seconds into the encounter in Dortmund, gave Albania an explosive start to their European Championship record books. It was the fastest goal in the 64-year history of the competition.
A pivotal moment saw Italy’s Federico Dimarco’s throw-in go wrong, giving Bajrami the chance to capitalize and produce the breakthrough. Swiftly maintaining his cool, he controlled the ball and struck with such force that it flew past the goalie and tucked inside the near post.
This momentous accomplishment brought attention to Albania’s skill and emphasized the thrill and unpredictability that characterize premier football competitions.
Dmitri Kirichenko of Russia held the record for the fastest goal in Euro history, having scored against Greece in 2004 after just 67 seconds. This remarkable accomplishment was eclipsed by Bajrami’s lightning-fast strike, which set a new record.
Although Albania lost their opening Group B match 2-1, its passionate supporters will never forget the brief moment when they shocked the reigning champions. Albania is a little country in the Balkans.
Albania’s lightning strike eventually inspired Italy to take more aggressive action and win the game 3-1.
“We interpreted it as a welcome systemic shock.” Federico Chiesa was quoted as saying by ca.sports.”It gave us flashbacks of the final in Euro 2020 when we immediately fell behind.”
On that occasion, the Italians bounced back to draw 1-1 with England and win the penalty shootout. The Italians showed similar character to prevail against Albania.
There were so many red-clad Albanian supporters present that it seemed as if the match was being played in Tirana.
The Albanians’ Brazilian-born coach, Sylvinho, was astounded by the sea of red.
“We knew the entire stadium would be red,” he said, “but outside I saw so many Albanians proud to be here at the European Championship.”