Historic moment for Albanian football

The Albanian national team achieved a precious away victory against Andorra, winning 0–1 in the penultimate match of Group K of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The victory, combined with Serbia’s 2–0 loss on England’s home ground, has given Albania a historic qualification to the World Cup “play-off” phase, for the first time in its history, CE Report quotes ATA.

Coach Sylvinho fielded his standard lineup with Strakosha in goal, a defense composed of Hysaj, Gjimshiti, Ajeti, and Mitaj, while the midfield consisted of Shehu, Asllani, and Laçi. In attack, Hoxha, Broja, and Manaj were deployed, constantly creating pressure in the hosts’ penalty area.

Albania started the match with rhythm and determination, controlling the game and seeking the opening goal early.

Asllani was the first to try with a free-kick near the post, while Broja and Manaj kept up the pressure in Andorra’s box.

The hosts, however, threatened several times with quick counterattacks, putting goalkeeper Strakosha to the test.

In added time of the first half came the biggest chance: after a corner kick, Berat Gjimshiti struck the crossbar, and the score remained 0–0.

The Red and Blacks entered the second half with more aggression. In the 52nd minute, Broja made a beautiful burst down the wing and assisted Asllani, who shot hard, but the home goalkeeper diverted it.

The pressure brought the reward in the 62nd minute. After a model combination, Bajrami found Uzuni on the wing, who then delivered a precise pass to Kristjan Asllani, and this time he did not miss in front of the goalkeeper, scoring the winning goal for 0–1.

In the 73rd minute, unlucky Rey Manaj deflected Nedim Bajrami’s shot, but the ball went just wide of the post.

The match at “Estadi FAF” in Andorra ended 0–1 after 90 minutes.

The victory over Andorra and Serbia’s 2–0 loss to England ensured that the Red and Blacks mathematically secured second place in Group K – and with it, qualification for the 2026 World Cup “play-off” phase.

This is the first time that the Albanian national team has secured participation in a World Cup play-off stage.

The victory over Andorra and the parallel result in London sparked celebrations among all Albanian fans, thousands of whom were present at “Estadi FAF”.

Now only the final match against England remains on November 16 at “Air Albania”, which is expected to be a festive evening for Albanian football.