European Qualifiers: Albania enters Serbia match optimistic

The Albanian national football team began preparations for their next match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, against Serbia, which will take place on October 11 in Leskovac.

In an interview with the media, the President of the Albanian Football Federation, Armand Duka, emphasized the importance of this match for the team’s progress and expressed his confidence in the group of players and the coaching staff led by Silvinho, CE Report quotes ATA.

“There is no national team match that doesn’t bring maximum emotion, but when you are on the verge of achieving a goal or fighting for points, things become even more emotional. The match against Serbia is very important because it gives us a chance to reach the play-offs. All other matters, neither I nor the players want to dwell on — our focus is purely sporting,” Duka said.

The FSHF President added that a win would make the team more confident in reaching the play-offs, while a draw would still keep them in contention.

“A win would make us more certain about reaching the play-off objective, while a draw keeps us in the game. But we go onto the field for three points, fully aware that it will be very difficult to achieve. No one should think that we are the favorites. I believe this is an open match, and we have the chances to take the three points,” he said.

Regarding the decision to move the match from Belgrade to Leskovac, Duka stated that it does not bring a significant advantage or disadvantage and highlighted the importance of optimal conditions for the players.

“The important thing is to have a very good pitch where the players can perform under good conditions, and that’s it,” he said.

The FSHF President also emphasized that the match result will not determine the future of coach Silvinho.

“If we qualify, there is no reason to discuss staff changes. If we do not qualify, of course, there will be discussions, but this is not a match that will decide the coach’s future,” Duka said.

He concluded on an optimistic note:

“I have confidence in the group and the spirit we have. We may not have extraordinary qualities, but we have quality and a better group than Serbia, so I truly have a good feeling.”