Albania
Club History
Does your country have a saying/slogan?
O sa Mirë Me Qen Shqiptarë – It feels good to be Albanian.
Can you tell us about your team’s make-up? How did your team come together?
This is our second year in the tournament. We are trying to keep most of the players we had last year, but that’ll be tough. We were able to conceive only 2 goals in 4 games in 2018, something we see as a great achievement. We have been recruiting within the Albanian community, but also looking to strengthen our defense with solid American players.
How do you think soccer in general (and the Unity Cup in particular) promotes inclusivity?
That’s the most important thing (inclusivity) when it comes to playing soccer. The more diverse the participating teams are in the cup, the more we all enjoy ourselves, and become friends, and leave our battles only on the pitch.
What places (such as restaurants or cultural centers) or groups in Philadelphia would you recommend to someone if they wanted to learn more about the culture of the country your team represents?
Albanian coffee shops in Northeast Philadelphia and the Albanian church at 237 North 17th Street.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your team’s country?
Nobel Prize Winner Mother Teresa is Albanian-born.