Albania’s national football team is on the cusp of a major achievement, just two wins away from securing first place in its Nations League group. With crucial home matches against the Czech Republic on November 16 and Ukraine on November 19, the team is aiming to secure its first-ever spot in League A, Europe’s elite competition tier.
Albania faces critical home matches
Albania currently sits third in Nations League B Group 1, tied with Georgia on 6 points and trailing leader Czech Republic by just one point. Following a strong 3-0 victory over the Czechs in the European Championship qualifiers, Albania’s chances of a repeat win look promising, though the Czech team defeated Albania 2-0 in their last encounter in Prague.
With a win over the Czech Republic on November 16, Albania could claim the top position, provided other group results align. Georgian and Ukrainian results will factor into Albania’s final standings, making these last two matches decisive.
Pathway to League A for Albania
Securing the top spot in its group would allow Albania to move up to League A, joining Europe’s strongest national teams. This would be the highest level of competition the team has ever reached in the Nations League. Additionally, a group win offers the team an alternative pathway to the World Cup, as a playoff spot would provide another qualification route.
Challenges with player availability
Albania will be without striker Armando Broja and may also be without forward Rey Manaj, recently left out of Sivasspor’s Turkish Super Lig match due to form concerns. Midfielder Keidi Bare also remains uncertain due to injury, potentially impacting the team’s midfield strength. Head coach Sylvinho has said he will closely monitor the players’ conditions and is focused on fine-tuning the squad for these decisive games.
Chances for historic qualification
Securing first place in Nations League B would bring Albania recognition and a boost to its international football ambitions. While the upcoming matches are set to test the team’s resolve, fans and players alike are rallying behind the goal of advancing to the highest level of European competition.
