Albanian top-flight sides Besa Kavaje and Partizani Tirana met in a pre-season international club friendly on July 19, 2026, with Besa emerging 2–1 winners. The match served as preparation for both teams ahead of the upcoming Kategoria Superiore season.

Match Overview

Played at Besa's home stadium, the friendly saw both sides field near full-strength lineups. Partizani, the reigning champions, started strongly but Besa grew into the game after a slow first half.

Key Moments

• 14' – Partizani lead: A neat passing move ended with attacker Xhuliano Preçi finishing from close range.
• 33' – Besa equalize: Defender Ilirjan Çelhaka rose highest to head in a corner, giving Besa a lift.
• 68' – Besa take the lead: Substitute midfielder Ergys Smajli struck a fierce shot from 25 yards that beat the Partizani goalkeeper.
• Late pressure: Partizani pushed for an equalizer but Besa held firm, with goalkeeper Kristi Zeka making excellent saves.

Pre-season Significance

Friendly matches like this are vital for building fitness and tactical cohesion. Besa's victory will boost confidence as they aim to improve on their mid-table finish from last season. For Partizani, the loss serves as a wake-up call ahead of their title defense.

Standout Players

Ergys Smajli's winning goal was the highlight. Besa's central defensive pair of Çelhaka and Redon Xhixha nullified Partizani's frontline for large spells. Partizani's Preçi was dangerous early but faded.