Subject: NT Andorra's Newsletter

Aribau Joins Senior Squad as Rising Star

22-year-old striker Maties Aribau has received his first call-up to the extended senior national team squad of Andorra. It’s a significant milestone in the young player’s career, with a potential debut in the senior team possibly coming later this season.

Aribau, who plays for Supermegaekstralni under coach Boogie, has quickly earned recognition for his effectiveness and dedication on the pitch. In the U21 national team, he made 25 appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing 1 assist — statistics that clearly highlight his potential.

Although he has yet to debut for the senior team and is currently only part of the extended squad, his inclusion is a clear sign that the coaching staff sees him as part of Andorra’s footballing future.

If his development continues as expected, Aribau could soon become one of the key figures in the national side.

Fighting Spirit Shines as Andorra Narrowly Loses

Week 07: Ireland - Andorra – 2:1 (1:1)
Stadium: Ireland Arena, Attendance: 11179

Starting XI – Andorra

GK: Just Campos
DEF: Juli Major, Eusebi Triquell, Crístian Abulí, Nicolau Puig-arnal, Pere Oliva
MID: Marià Pararols, Hèctor Alibert, Ton Fernandes
ATT: Martí Sot, Bartomeu Ginestà

Substitutes:

Joan Ramon Fans (65'), Gustau Pean (65'), Carles Jordana (72'), Pere Joan Casal (75'), Maties Aribau (75')

Match Highlights:

Although Ireland entered the match as clear favorites, Andorra struck first in the 9th minute with a precise finish from Martí Sot, assisted by the energetic Ton Fernandes.

Coach MTK’s decision to field a winger paid off quickly, leading to numerous goal-scoring opportunities — Andorra registered 12 shots in total. The team delivered a solid and organized performance, achieving an average rating of 69.1. Ventura Sucarana was unavailable for the match due to a suspension.

Marià Pararols stood out as the team's engine, deeply involved in both defensive and offensive phases. Fernandes also made a significant impact, driving the attacks with his lively play on the wing.

Despite creating several promising chances and fighting on equal terms with Ireland, a technical mistake by a defender allowed the hosts to score the decisive goal. Substitutions — Joan Ramon Fans, Gustau Pean, Carles Jordana, Pere Joan Casal, and Maties Aribau — brought fresh energy, but the equalizer ultimately did not come. The match ended without any injuries or cards.

General Comment:

Despite the loss, Andorra’s performance in Ireland showed clear progress. Many observers felt that a draw would have been a fairer reflection of the game. The tactical change to include a winger brought offensive vitality and allowed the team to create numerous clear chances.

However, there is growing concern over the poor form of Carles Jordana and Benet Salvà, who were both crucial players last season. There is hope they will soon return to their best form.

The style of play and the players' commitment offer reasons for optimism ahead of the next challenges. Andorra currently sits fourth in their Euro qualifying group (out of six teams) and now prepares for their next crucial match — an away game against Scotland.
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A New Journey Begins: Maties Aribau Makes His Debut for Andorra

At the 75th minute of a tough and testing encounter against Ireland, Maties Aribau, a 22-year-old forward, stepped onto the pitch to make his first senior appearance.

Replacing the experienced Bartomeu Ginestà, Aribau entered a match that was anything but forgiving. Fifteen minutes is a short time to change a game — especially one as grueling as this — but it can be enough to leave a mark, and even more importantly, to gain invaluable experience. Aribau fought for every ball, pressing high when possible and offering himself as an outlet when Andorra needed moments of respite.

This debut was not about scoring a winning goal or dazzling with spectacular moves. It was about stepping into the arena of senior international football — a place where lessons are tough but growth is forged. For Aribau, it was a first taste of the level demanded at the highest stage, a first test of character, and a first step towards what could be a long and exciting career with the national team. Maties Aribau’s journey has just begun.

Solid Performance Despite 3–1 Loss in Scotland

Week 08: Scotland - Andorra – 3:1 (3:1)
Stadium: Scotland Arena, Attendance: 10045

Starting XI – Andorra

GK: Just Campos
DEF: Juli Major, Joan Ramon Fans, Crístian Abulí, Nicolau Puig-arnal, Pere Oliva
MID: Marià Pararols, Hèctor Alibert, Ton Fernandes
ATT: Martí Sot, Bartomeu Ginestà

Substitutes:

Eusebi Triquell (62'), Gustau Pean (66'), Llorenç Faugerat (70'), Benet Salvà (70'), Maties Aribau (76)

Match Highlights:

On a warm Saturday morning in Scotland, Andorra faced a tough challenge against the hosts at a lively stadium filled with 10,045 spectators. Despite the early kickoff, the atmosphere was electric, and the Scots wasted no time setting the pace of the match. With quick goals early in the first half, Scotland seized a strong advantage that ultimately shaped the entire game.

Andorra, however, showed resilience. Attacker Martí Sot provided a bright moment for the visitors, scoring in the 37th minute to narrow the gap. His effort was a well-taken goal and offered hope for a potential comeback. Hèctor Alibert also stood out with a solid performance as a defensive midfielder, contributing significantly to stabilizing the team after a turbulent start.

While Andorra managed to limit the damage in the second half and delivered a much-improved performance, the 3–1 scoreline from the first half remained unchanged until the final whistle. Notably, there were no suspensions, injuries, or cards issued during the match, allowing both sides to compete with full strength.

General Comment:

Overall, it was a solid showing from Andorra, especially considering the quality of the opposition and the difficult circumstances early in the match. The team displayed commendable organization and spirit, particularly in the second half, suggesting positive signs for the future.

One critical area identified for improvement was defending against crosses from the wings — an issue that Scotland exploited effectively to score their goals. Addressing this vulnerability will be crucial as Andorra looks to climb from their current fourth place in their Euro qualification group.

With no serious setbacks from this match, the focus now shifts to their upcoming friendly against Paraguay, offering another valuable opportunity for growth and preparation.

Andorra's schedule for Season 73 (update - 10.05.2025)

After completing their participation in the European Championship, the Andorra national team will now have six friendly matches to prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers next season:

W01: Friendly/ Honduras 2:0
W02: Friednly/ España 0:0
W03: Friendly/ El Salvador 0:5
W04: Euro/ Bosna i Hercegovina 0:6
W05: Euro/ Danmark 1:0
W06: Euro/ Slovenija 2:0
W07: Euro/ Ireland 1:2
W08: Euro/ Scotland 1:3
W09 Friendly/ Paraguay
W10 Friendly/ Cymru
W11 Friendly/ Severna Makedonija
W12 Friendly/ Latvija
W13 Friendly/ FREE

W01 Friendly/ FREE
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Strong Performance by Andorra Against Paraguay

Week 09: Andorra - Paraguay – 1:1 (1:1)
Stadium: Principat d'Andorra, Attendance: 4690

Starting XI – Andorra

GK: Just Campos
DEF: Juli Major, Joan Ramon Fans, Crístian Abulí, Eusebi Triquell, Pere Oliva
MID: Marià Pararols, Hèctor Alibert, Ton Fernandes
ATT: Martí Sot, Bartomeu Ginestà

Substitutes:

Llorenç Faugerat (65'), Pere Joan Casal (74'), Benet Salvà (74'), Gustau Pean (75'), Maties Aribau (75')

Match Highlights:

On a warm Saturday morning at home, in front of 4,690 passionate fans, Andorra hosted Paraguay for an exciting friendly encounter. Despite the absence of key players Genís Acosta, Joan Pau Gou, and Joan Ramon Vagué due to injuries, and Nicolau Puig-arnal through suspension, Andorra delivered a very good performance, drawing 1-1 in a match full of intensity and spirit.

The starting lineup, led by Just Campos between the posts, showed early signs of confidence. Midfield maestro Ton Fernandes controlled the tempo of the game, orchestrating plays with remarkable composure. The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when forward Martí Sot found the back of the net, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Andorra dominated in terms of chances, registering more shots than their South American opponents. However, their lower efficiency in front of goal meant the scoreboard remained balanced. Despite no assists being recorded, the overall build-up play was impressive. Importantly, the team managed to stay disciplined throughout, receiving neither yellow nor red cards, and no injuries were reported during the game.

General Comment:

This match against Paraguay proved once again that Andorra can confidently compete with teams of a similar level. The 1-1 result, backed by an impressive average team rating of 69.6, showcased a squad that is growing stronger and more cohesive with each outing.

The warm atmosphere at the stadium, combined with a disciplined, spirited performance, left fans optimistic about the future. As Andorra looks ahead to their next friendly against Cymru, this solid display offers much encouragement and highlights a national team that continues to build momentum.

The Last Tackle: Auriola Ends His Time with the National Team

At 35, Lari Auriola has officially retired from international football, closing a long and steady chapter that saw him earn 84 caps for the national team.

A central defender by trade, Auriola was never a headline-maker — he didn’t score a single goal or register an assist in his international career. But his contribution was measured in interceptions, clearances, and calm leadership at the heart of the defense. For over a decade, he provided Andorra with a sense of stability and discipline that few could replicate.

His final minutes in the national shirt came in Season 73, where he featured for 85 minutes across two matches, including matches against Honduras and El Salvador. Though his role had diminished, his presence in the squad remained symbolic — a veteran anchoring a new generation.

Citing age and a decline in physical sharpness, Auriola made the difficult but honest decision to step away. In response, the national team expressed its deep gratitude for his years of loyal service.

Lari Auriola retires not as a superstar, but as something rarer — a dependable, selfless professional who put the badge before the spotlight. His absence will be felt most not on the scoresheet, but in the back line he helped fortify for so many years.

New Name on the Radar: Asdrúbal Herder Called Up to Senior Squad Pool

A new name has appeared in the extended Andorran national team roster: 23-year-old defender Asdrúbal Herder. The young centre-back, currently playing for Belgian side SV Heusden-Voort, has been included in the preliminary group selected by national team coach MTK as preparations begin for upcoming fixtures.

Herder, a former U21 international with 25 appearances, has long been seen as a steady and disciplined presence at youth level. While he never registered a goal or assist in his U21 career, his reliability and maturity on the pitch earned him a regular place in the squad over several years.

Though not yet considered a core member of the senior team, Herder’s inclusion signals that he is on the radar for a potential debut. With continued development at club level and consistent training performances, he could soon find himself earning his first full international cap.

For now, he remains a part of the wider setup — but with clear signs that more could follow if progress continues.

Missed Chances Cost Andorra in 3–1 Defeat to Cymru

Week 10: Cymru - Andorra – 3:1 (1:0)
Stadium: Cymru Arena, Attendance: 10199

Starting XI – Andorra

GK: Just Campos
DEF: Juli Major, Eusebi Triquell, Crístian Abulí, Pere Oliva
MID: Benet Salvà, Marià Pararols, Hèctor Alibert, Ton Fernandes
ATT: Martí Sot, Bartomeu Ginestà

Substitutes:

Gustau Pean (65'), Martí Sansa (73'), Maties Aribau (73'), Joaquim Gasto (75'), Joan Ramon Fans (75')


Match Highlights:

On a rainy and heavily overcast Saturday morning in Cymru, Andorra took to the pitch for a friendly match in front of 10,199 spectators. Despite being without injured players Genís Acosta, Joan Pau Gou, and Joan Ramon Vagué, the visitors delivered their best team performance in the last ten matches, achieving a strong average rating of 70.4.

Andorra set up in a 4-3-1-2 formation that emphasized wide play and positional control, and it paid off early with dominant stretches, especially in the first half. Although Cymru led 1–0 at halftime and extended their lead to a 3–1 final score, Andorra were far from outplayed.

The Andorran side registered 17 shots to Cymru’s 7, carving out numerous chances, particularly through dynamic wing play. Substitute Maties Aribau, who came on in the 73rd minute, was a standout performer — scoring in the 82nd minute and providing a much-needed attacking spark. His direct play and chance creation were among the game's highlights.

General Comment:

While the result was a 3–1 defeat, Andorra’s performance told a more nuanced story. The tactical setup with a wide midfielder worked effectively, helping the team establish both positional and statistical superiority over a side of equal standing. The players controlled long periods of the game and created numerous goal-scoring opportunities.

However, the lack of clinical finishing proved costly. Despite generating 17 attempts, Andorra struggled to convert key chances, allowing Cymru to stay ahead. On the defensive end, the team’s organization was less convincing, with three goals conceded despite limited threats from the hosts.

Nonetheless, the display was encouraging overall. With a friendly against Severna Makedonija on the horizon, Andorra will aim to maintain their attacking momentum while sharpening their finishing and defensive coordination.

Juli Major Joins Andorra’s Caps Elite

In a proud moment for Andorran football, defender Juli Major has officially entered the prestigious “Outstanding Caps Club,” marking his 75th international appearance in a recent match against Paraguay. The milestone recognizes players who have reached or surpassed 75 caps for the national team.

Now with 76 appearances to his name, Major has become one of the pillars of the Andorran national squad. A core figure in the team's defense, he has contributed 4 goals across his international career. Though he has not recorded any assists, his consistent performance and leadership on the field have been invaluable.

This season, Major has played every minute of Andorra’s 10 matches—totaling 900 minutes—and remains an ever-reliable presence on the pitch. His form is currently described as outstanding, further underlining his critical role in the team.

The Andorran Football Federation extends its heartfelt thanks to Juli Major for his extraordinary commitment, service, and achievements in the national colors. His legacy will inspire future generations of Andorran footballers.

Joaquim Gastó Returns to the National Fold with Renewed Purpose

After a long period of poor form, Joaquim Gastó, the 27-year-old defensive midfielder, made his return to the Andorran national team in the match against Cymru. Coming off the bench in the 75th minute, his performance, though brief, was a positive step forward.

Gastó didn’t make headlines with spectacular plays, but he brought calm and composure to the midfield—something the team clearly needed at that stage of the game. After months of struggling and being left out of the squad, his appearance sent a clear message: he is finding his way back.

The coaching staff was pleased with his contribution. They saw exactly what they had hoped for—a solid, dependable display that helped the team stay organized. In the current state of the national team, such reliability is highly valued.

There is a belief within the camp that if Gastó can maintain this level, he won't just secure a more regular spot but will also intensify competition for places in the matchday squad. For the coach, this is a promising development; more competition often brings the best out of players.

It’s still too early for bold predictions, but Joaquim Gastó’s return can be marked as a success. As he walked off the pitch, there was quiet satisfaction in his demeanor—he had taken the first real step toward reclaiming his place. A new chapter may be beginning, and once again, he has something to prove.

Andorra Earns Respectable Draw in Skopje

Week 11: Severna Makedonija - Andorra – 1:1 (0:1)
Stadium: Severna Makedonija Arena, Attendance: 10199

Starting XI – Andorra

GK: Just Campos
DEF: Juli Major, Nicolau Puig-arnal, Crístian Abulí, Joan Ramon Fans, Pere Oliva
MID: Hèctor Alibert, Benet Salvà, Ton Fernandes
ATT: Martí Sot, Bartomeu Ginestà

Substitutes:

Pere Joan Casal (62'), Marià Pararols (62'), Martí Sansa (75')

Match Highlights:

On a cloudy, rain-soaked Saturday morning at Severna Makedonija Arena, Andorra delivered a disciplined and determined performance, holding the hosts to a 1–1 draw in an international friendly. With 6,202 fans in attendance, the match offered moments of promise for the visiting side, especially given the difficult weather conditions and the challenge of playing away.

Andorra opened the scoring early in the 17th minute through Martí Sot, who capitalized on a moment of pressure in the opposing box. Despite the lack of an assist, the goal was a product of organized team play and attacking intent from the start. The visitors maintained their advantage through the first half, defending with structure and patience.

The second half brought increased pressure from Severna Makedonija, and although Andorra held firm for much of the game, the equalizer eventually came. Still, the Andorran side avoided any disciplinary issues—no yellow or red cards were shown—and finished the match with heads held high.

General Comment:

Andorra’s average team rating of 69.1 reflects a strong, collective display. The team returned to its traditional 5-3-2 formation, this time anchored by a single defensive midfielder, and the tactical shift paid off with a compact and balanced performance.

The absence of injuries—both before and during the match—allowed the team to execute its game plan effectively. The coaching staff will be pleased with how the players responded to the structure and intensity required.

Most encouraging was the return of Benet Salvà to his commanding role in midfield. His influence gave Andorra a sense of control and composure, especially during challenging phases of the match.

Looking ahead, Andorra will now prepare for another friendly, this time against Latvija. With positive momentum and growing internal competition for starting places, confidence within the camp is quietly building.

Salvà Returns to Form and Reclaims Key Role for Andorra

It was a long time coming, but Benet Salvà is finally back where many believe he belongs — at the heart of Andorra’s midfield.

After a period spent largely on the fringes, coming on in late minutes and offering only glimpses of his former influence, the 32-year-old defensive midfielder has reclaimed a starting spot. His recent performances in back-to-back matches against Cymru and Severna Makedonija have marked a powerful return to form, reminding fans and teammates alike why Salvà once commanded such a central role in the national side.

The last time Salvà started a game before this resurgence was way back in Season 73, Week 1, against Honduras. Since then, his presence on the pitch has been minimal — limited mostly to late-game substitutions, as the coaching staff experimented with younger options and different tactical shapes.

But form is a strange thing in football. It ebbs, it flows — and sometimes, it returns with quiet ferocity.

Over the last two games, Salvà has done more than just fill a position. He’s dictated tempo, broken up opposition play, and added a layer of composure that had been sorely missing. His tackling, positioning, and understated leadership have helped stabilize a midfield that looked uncertain in previous fixtures.

At 32, Salvà isn’t the youngest name on the team sheet, but what he brings in experience and game intelligence is proving indispensable. It’s not just about the minutes played — it’s about the impact. And over the last two games, that impact has been undeniable.

For the national team, the timing couldn’t be better.

Andorra Dominates in 0-2 Win Over Lëtzebuerg

Week 12: Lëtzebuerg - Andorra – 0:2 (0:2)
Stadium: Lëtzebuerg Arena, Attendance: 5743

Starting XI – Andorra

GK: Just Campos
DEF: Juli Major, Nicolau Puig-arnal, Crístian Abulí, Joan Ramon Fans, Pere Oliva
MID: Hèctor Alibert, Benet Salvà, Ton Fernandes
ATT: Martí Sot, Bartomeu Ginestà

Substitutes:

Pere Joan Casal (61'), Marià Pararols (61'), Martí Sansa (77')

Match Highlights:

Saturday morning in Lëtzebuerg saw Andorra deliver a composed and professional performance, defeating their hosts 2-0 in a friendly match at the Lëtzebuerg Stadium. Under heavy clouds and moderate rainfall, Andorra quickly seized control of the game, with Martí Sot netting both goals within the first eleven minutes.

Despite the wet conditions, Andorra’s starting lineup—featuring Just Campos in goal, a strong central pairing of Nicolau Puig-arnal and Joan Ramon Fans, and midfield leadership from Benet Salvà—looked sharp and determined. Martí Sot’s clinical finishing was the highlight of the early exchanges, while Andorra’s midfield and defense limited Lëtzebuerg to just two shots throughout the entire match.

General Comment:

Originally scheduled to face Latvija, Andorra was forced to pivot after the opposing coach withdrew from their prior agreement. Nevertheless, Andorra showed no signs of disruption. Their solid team rating of 69.3 reflected their control of the game, with the outstanding performance of Benet Salvà in midfield standing out. Young defender Joan Ramon Fans also impressed with a confident display at the back.

The result confirms Andorra’s status as the clear favorite in this encounter, with coach and players handling the pressure with ease. With another friendly in the works against an as-yet-unknown opponent, Andorra’s form—especially that of Salvà—promises more positive performances to come.
(edited)

Andorra's schedule for Season 73 (update - 02.06.2025)

You can find below the current game schedule of the Andorra national team. The last two friendlies were already arranged before the election results.

W01: Friendly/ Honduras 2:0
W02: Friednly/ España 0:0
W03: Friendly/ El Salvador 0:5
W04: Euro/ Bosna i Hercegovina 0:6
W05: Euro/ Danmark 1:0
W06: Euro/ Slovenija 2:0
W07: Euro/ Ireland 1:2
W08: Euro/ Scotland 1:3
W09 Friendly/ Paraguay 1:1
W10 Friendly/ Cymru 1:3
W11 Friendly/ Severna Makedonija 1:1
W12 Friendly/ Lëtzebuerg 2:0
W13 Friendly/ Canada

W01 Friendly/ España
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A Reliable Guardian of the Goal: Just Campos

For 30-year-old goalkeeper Just Campos, football has been a journey of passion and dedication, culminating in his status as the backbone of Andorra’s national team. With a career marked by steady growth and unwavering focus, Campos has established himself as a reliable last line of defense, both at home and abroad.

Transfer History

Campos’s football story began at Torb in Andorra, where he first learned the art of goalkeeping. His raw talent and determination were quickly noticed, leading to his landmark move to Outbreakers in Bulgaria. This transfer, valued at a record-breaking 4 000 000 $—the highest fee in his career—marked the first major chapter of his professional journey.

From there, Campos’s career took him to Dream Theater F.C in Brazil, followed by a stint with KLABZUBOVA 11 in the Czech Republic. Today, he proudly defends the goal for Kucke sa Medaka in Serbia, continuing to build his legacy across the globe.

National Team

Campos’s contributions to the Andorran national team have been nothing short of vital. With 57 caps to his name—including 18 matches and 1,542 minutes under head coach MTK’s leadership—he has stood as a steadfast presence between the posts.

Although he has yet to find the back of the net or register an assist, his influence is felt in every save, every shout of direction, and every point secured during the most recent World Cup qualifiers. Widely recognized as the best goalkeeper in Andorra when he’s in top form, Campos has pulled off countless incredible saves that kept his nation’s dreams alive.

Off the pitch, Campos is known as a friendly figure who enjoys winding down with a game of chess in the evenings. Yet when the whistle blows, he becomes a fierce competitor, a leader who commands the defensive line with authority and unwavering confidence.

In a world of constant change, Just Campos remains a reassuring constant for Andorran fans—proof that true class, determination, and quiet leadership never go out of style.
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