On 21 September 2025, FC Istogu 03 travelled to Park Suva Reka to face Studençani 77 in a league away fixture that kicked off at 3:00pm. The match ended emphatically in Istogu’s favour with a 4-1 scoreline, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive solidity under the watchful eye of referee Flamur Nagavci.
Istogu deployed a classic 4-3-3 formation, setting up with Arber Bajraktari in goal, protected by a back four consisting of Loris Shatri at right back, Lorik Bajraktaraj and Dardan Bajraktari as central defenders, and Ilir Quni on the left flank. The midfield trio featured Faton Sylaj on the right, Liridon Aga centrally, and Valton Fekaj on the left, tasked with both defensive duties and creative support. Upfront, the front three comprised Hajdar Haxhiu on the right wing, Jusuf Sabotic leading the line as striker, and Jetnor Kabashi on the left wing. The substitutes named for the match were Noah Kehinde Olekunbi, Shkelqim Januzaj, Ilirjan Ademaj, and Arlind Ademaj.
The game’s opening goal came in the 27th minute when Istogu capitalised on a corner delivered by Valton Fekaj. The left midfielder’s precise delivery found right back Loris Shatri, who rose highest to power a header beyond the Studençani goalkeeper. This early breakthrough set the tone for Istogu’s dominance.
Just four minutes later, Istogu doubled their advantage through Valton Fekaj himself. Receiving a short pass from central midfielder Liridon Aga inside the box, Fekaj expertly curled a right-footed finish into the net, demonstrating his attacking threat from midfield.
However, the visitors’ control was momentarily disrupted when Liridon Aga was shown a yellow card in the 40th minute for serious foul play, a caution that would later influence the team’s tactical approach.
The first half concluded with Istogu firmly in control at 2-0, reflecting their effective use of the 4-3-3 system which allowed width from the midfield and forward lines, as well as a solid defensive base.
Early in the second half, Studençani pulled a goal back in the 52nd minute, capitalising on a defensive error from Istogu. The opposition striker took advantage of the mistake to slot home with his right foot, injecting some hope for the home side.
That hope was short-lived, however, as Studençani were reduced to ten men in the 70th minute after a red card was issued for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. This dismissal swung the momentum decisively back to Istogu.
In response, Istogu made a triple substitution at the 72nd minute mark, bringing on Noah Kehinde Olekunbi, Shkelqim Januzaj, and Ilirjan Ademaj for Jetnor Kabashi, Hajdar Haxhiu, and Faton Sylaj respectively. These changes injected fresh energy and tactical flexibility into the side.
The substitutions paid immediate dividends as Noah Kehinde Olekunbi headed home a cross from striker Jusuf Sabotic in the 79th minute, restoring Istogu’s two-goal cushion with a well-timed finish.
Shortly after, Ilirjan Ademaj tested the opposition goalkeeper with a shot that was well saved in the 82nd minute, showing the substitutes’ intent to maintain pressure.
Further tactical adjustment came in the 85th minute when Arlind Ademaj replaced the booked Liridon Aga, ensuring midfield stability as the game approached its final stages.
In the 89th minute, Ilirjan Ademaj sealed the emphatic victory with a close-range finish, converting a short pass from Noah Kehinde Olekunbi. The goal, described as a fluke, nonetheless underscored Istogu’s relentless attacking threat and clinical finishing.
Valton Fekaj was deservedly named player of the match for his influential role, contributing a goal, an assist, and constant creativity from the left midfield position. His performance was pivotal in Istogu’s commanding display.
Overall, FC Istogu 03’s disciplined 4-3-3 formation, combined with effective substitutions and clinical finishing, ensured a comprehensive 4-1 triumph over Studençani 77 on their own turf. The victory will boost their confidence as they continue their league campaign.
