Albania seeks to create “Greater Albania”

Regional tensions bubble as Serbia-Albania soccer match erupts in violence

Background:

Albania seeks to create a “Greater Albania,” which includes regions of Greece, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo. Historically, there have been numerous political and historical events that have soured relations between these countries.

Incident:

On October 14, 2014, a UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying match between Serbia and Albania took place in Belgrade, Serbia. Pro-Albanian protestors released a drone with a flag of Greater Albania, which sparked a brawl on the field between the players. The match was abandoned due to the violence.

Aftermath:

The incident has led to increased tensions between Serbia and Albania, causing concern throughout the region. The timing of the incident, with tensions already high between the two countries, has raised fears of further escalation of violence.