In the 2024/25 season’s UEFA Champions League qualifiers, FC Santa Coloma from Andorra made unprecedented history by advancing to the next stage of the Champions League for the first time in their history, an achievement of significant importance for the team.
The match between FC Santa Coloma and Kosovo’s Ballkani was filled with suspense and drama right from the start. Despite this Andorran team never having tasted victory in their previous 17 Champions League matches, they displayed extraordinary resilience and determination in this game. The 1-2 deficit from the first leg did not discourage them; instead, it fueled their resolve to turn things around.
The second leg, played in Podujevo, saw FC Santa Coloma under immense pressure. However, they were not overpowered by their opponents’ momentum but instead relied on tenacious defense and precise attacking strategies to bring the game to a climax. When the match entered injury time, Hamidi’s own goal helped FC Santa Coloma equalize the aggregate score, sending the game into extra time.
In extra time, Franco’s goal in the 102nd minute sent Andorran fans into a frenzy, but Ballkani did not give up, with Hamidi scoring again to send the game to a penalty shootout. In the penalty shootout, both teams were tied at 4-4, and ultimately, in the second sudden death round, goalkeeper Juanpe became the hero by saving Takic’s penalty, securing FC Santa Coloma’s victory and advancing the team to the next round of the Champions League.
FC Santa Coloma’s victory is not just a win in a sporting event; it symbolizes the rise of football in small nations and an indomitable spirit. For this Andorran team, the advancement means more challenges and opportunities. They will face Denmark’s FC Midtjylland in the upcoming matches, and even if they do not progress further, they will have the chance to participate in the third round of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
