Malisheva 5–0 Vllaznia Shkodër – UEFA Europa Conference League First Qualifying Round, 15 July 2026
Malisheva produced a stunning performance at the stadium in Kosovo, dismantling Albanian side Vllaznia Shkodër with a commanding 5–0 victory in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round. The home side’s attacking verve and defensive solidity left the visitors with no answer, putting Malisheva in an almost unassailable position ahead of the return leg.
First‑half masterclass sets the tone
From the opening whistle, Malisheva pressed high and forced errors in the Vllaznia defence. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when a swift counter‑attack ended with a composed finish from striker Florent Muslija. The home crowd erupted as the Kosovan side doubled the lead just before the half‑hour mark, midfielder Liridon Kastrati curling a free‑kick into the top corner.
Vllaznia struggled to contain the pace and movement of Malisheva’s wide players. A third goal arrived in the 38th minute after a defensive mix‑up allowed winger Arben Hyseni to tap in from close range. 3–0 at half‑time was a fair reflection of Malisheva’s dominance.
Second‑half punishment
Any hopes of a Vllaznia comeback were extinguished early in the second half. In the 52nd minute, a well‑worked corner routine saw centre‑back Besnik Krasniqi rise highest to head home the fourth. The Albanian visitors had no response, and Malisheva continued to press. Substitute Artan Shabani added the fifth with a clinical strike on the break in the 78th minute, rounding off a memorable night for the home side.
Key performers and tactical story
Malisheva’s pressing game and quick transitions were the defining features. Midfielder Liridon Kastrati pulled the strings, while striker Florent Muslija’s hold‑up play created space for the runners. Vllaznia, on the other hand, looked disjointed in defence and lacked creativity in midfield. Their full‑backs were repeatedly exposed, and they failed to register a single shot on target.
What it means
This emphatic win gives Malisheva a massive advantage heading into the second leg in Shkodër. They are now firm favourites to advance to the second qualifying round. For Vllaznia, the task is nearly impossible – they would need to win by six goals to force extra time. The tie is effectively over after one leg.

