'Golden Ball 2025'/ Tonight the best of Albanian Football are 'crowned'!

Qualifying for the first time in the play-off phase of the 2026 World Cup was the crowning achievement of a historic year for Albanian football. The national team managed to secure second place in Group K, where they were drawn with England, Serbia, Latvia and Andorra.

Just like last year at the gala evening, this year one of the National Team players was honored with the “Red and Black Heart” trophy. This award was voted for by all members of the “National Team Fans” club.

Fans had the opportunity to vote through an e-mail sent by the Albanian Football Association and after the votes were counted, the winner was declared red and black defender, Mario Mitaj.

This trophy reflects the fans' appreciation for his exceptional performances and dedication to the red and black jersey. The trophy was presented to him by Lorik Cana, the legendary former captain of the National Team. In a short speech, the defender expressed his happiness and pride at being recognized by the fans with this trophy.

Për të dytin vit radhazi, tekniku i Egnatias, Edlir Tetova është shpallur fitues i trofeut “Trajneri i vitit 2025”, pas një tjetër edicioni të shkëlqyer me ekipin rrogozhinas, me të cilin fitoi kampionatin.

Të nominuar për të fituar këtë trofe ishin edhe trajneri i Vllaznisë, Edi Martini, trajneri i Elbasanit, Ivan Gozdenoviç dhe trajneri i Bylisit, Mirel Josa.

Në Mbrëmjen Gala që po mbahet sonte në Teatrin Kombëtar të Operas dhe Baletit, trajneri i ekipit Kombëtar, Silvinjo i dorëzoi trofeun e rëndësishëm, Edlir Tetovës, i cili u shpreh i lumtur që është vlerësuar me këtë çmim për të dytin vit radhazi.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, through a video message, praised the progress of Albanian football at the "Ballon d'Or 2025" Gala Evening.

He congratulated the National Team for qualifying for the first time in the play-off phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as well as the successful organization of the U-17 European Championship "Albania 2025".

President Infantino congratulated the AFF for its investments in infrastructure, the "House of Football" and the increase in the number of footballers, congratulating President Armand Duka, the staff and the winners of the evening for their contribution to Albanian football.

“Dear football friends, good evening! Good evening dear Armand, good evening everyone. It is a pleasure to address the figures and leaders of Albanian football on the special occasion of the Ballon d’Or Gala ceremony. This ceremony has quickly become an important event in the football calendar with the feel of a traditional and prestigious event. This is a testament to creativity and dedication, not to mention the impressive growth of the beautiful game in your beautiful country. There was much to applaud during 2025. After an impressive performance at EURO 2024, your men’s national team came second in the challenge group of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and deservedly secured a place in the play-offs.

Just two wins away from the biggest stage of football! Meanwhile, your successful organisation of the European U-17 Championship Albania 2025 attracted high praise and a large audience. It was the most popular edition since 2008, and attracted over 10,000 fans to the final played at the spectacular “National Arena” in Tirana. I had the privilege of visiting the stadium in 2022, when I also attended the inauguration of your “House of Football” headquarters, which was built in partnership with FIFA. Your commitment to cooperation and to improving football infrastructure has yielded measurable results, from more spectators in stadiums to an increase in the number of footballers. Congratulations to President Armand Duka, colleagues and staff who work with dedication to promote and elevate Albanian football! And of course congratulations to tonight’s winners for your achievements, and for your contribution to an unforgettable year for our beloved game!” , said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

One of the most special moments of the "Golden Ball 2025" Gala Evening was the announcement of the "Abissnet Superiore" Best Formation of the Year, selected by journalists and sports opinionators, according to the 1-4-3-3 scheme.

The best goalkeeper of the year is Mario Dajsinani, a footballer for Egnatia and the Albanian national team.

The defense includes: Emiljan Musta (AF Elbasani), Arbenit Xhemajli (Egnatia), Naser Aliji (Dinamo City) and Abdurrahman Fangaj (Egnatia).

In midfield, the following have been selected: Adnard Mehmeti (Partizani), Albano Aleksi (Egnatia) and Esat Mala (Vllaznia).

The attacking trio consists of: Dejvi Bregu (Dinamo City), Bekim Balaj (Vllaznia) and Baton Zabërgja (Dinamo City).

On stage to announce the winning names were former Albanian footballers Kreshnik Çipi and Mujo Targaj, who presented the trophies to the 11 selected players.

At the end, all the footballers went up on stage to receive their awards, while there was also the occasional thank you and the traditional team photo together.

Kreshnik Cjapi has been announced as the winner of the “Referee of the Year 2025” award at the “Golden Ball” gala evening. The Albanian referee was praised for his confident performances, professionalism and contribution throughout the year in national and international matches.

Emanuela Rusta, Florjan Lata and Juxhin Xhaja were also nominated for this trophy, as they have had a season with good performances in refereeing many important matches.

The "Referee of the Year" trophy was presented to Kreshnik Cjapi by former renowned Italian referee, Gianluca Rocchi, during the "Golden Ball 2025" gala evening.

Jessica Ndoj has been announced as the winner of the "Talent of the Year" award in the girls' category for the second year in a row, during the "Golden Ball 2025" gala evening.

The young footballer was praised for her consistent performances, continued progress and potential throughout the season.

This award recognizes the passion, dedication and determination of girls who challenge prejudice and follow their dream of becoming a football star. Albana Malaj, Ambra Reshiti and Klesta Ago were also nominated for this trophy.

The trophy was presented to Jessica Ndojt by former Albanian national football player, Foto Strakosha, who congratulated her on this important achievement.

Fabjan Përdreca was announced the winner of the “Talent of the Year” award for boys at the “Golden Ball 2025” gala evening. The Bylis and U-21 National Team defender was praised for his performances and the potential shown during the season.

This award recognizes the passion, dedication and talent of young footballers who aim to reach the top of their careers. Also nominated for this trophy were Arlind Kurti (Laçi), Ergis Arifi (Teuta) and Erald Maksuti (Flamurtari).

The award was presented to Fabjan Përdreca by Albanian national team defender Elseid Hysaj. After receiving the award, Fabjan Përdreca thanked everyone present and expressed his gratitude for this important recognition.

The winner of the “Golden Boot 2025” trophy for boys, for the 2024–2025 football season, is Bekim Balaj. As is known, this trophy does not require a voting process, as it is determined based on the number of goals scored during the season. Bekim Balaj has scored 19 goals in this edition, ranking first in the list of goal scorers. The trophy was presented to the Shkodran striker by the legend of Argentine football, former midfielder Esteban Cambiasso.

Striker Megi Doçi has been announced as the winner of the “Golden Boot 2025” trophy for girls for the 2024-2025 football season. This trophy did not require a vote as it was determined based on goals scored during this season. With 83 goals scored with Vllaznia, Megi Doçi is ranked at the top of the list of top scorers in the girls' category.

At the "Golden Ball 2025" Gala, which is taking place tonight at TKOB, this trophy was presented to Doç by former national team midfielder, Ervin Skela.