History of Albanian football

Although it never played any matches, the Albania national football team existed before the Albanian Football Association (FSHF) was created in 1930. This is evinced by the registration of the Albanian team in the 1929–31 Balkan Cup a year before the creation of the FSHF.^[3] The FSHF was founded on 6 June 1930, and Albania joined FIFA during a congress held between 12 and 16 June, although it never played any matches.^[3] Albania was invited to play in the 1934 World Cup, but did not take part due to logistical problems.

The early years saw a notably successful Balkan Cup run in 1946 as Albania participated for the first time at the Balkan Cup. Albania won their group over favourites Yugoslavia by earning a better goal difference. Albania played also its first ever international match against Yugoslavia in 1946, which ended in a 3–2 home defeat despite an early 2–0 lead at the Qemal Stafa Stadium.^[4] Despite that defeat, they defeated Bulgaria with 3–1 in the next match, Albania won the tournament by defeating Romania 1–0 in the final. Albania initially was not expected to participate in the tournament, but the withdrawal of Greece offered Albania a chance to join in the re-established post-war cup.^[5]

1946 Balkan Cup
Albania First title

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Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts
1	Albania (C)	3	2	0	1	6	4	+2	4	Winners
2	Yugoslavia	3	2	0	1	6	5	+1	4
3	Romania	3	1	1	1	4	4	0	3
4	Bulgaria	3	0	1	2	4	7	−3	1

Albania waited until 1962 to compete in a Euro Cup competition and it was so far the only time Albania was between the best 16 teams of the Continent, the reason being Albania got past the first leg as Greece, for political reasons forfeited the games winning both matches 3-0 and 0-3 and 6–0 on aggregate. Albania beat Denmark in the second leg in the round of 16 thanks to an early goal from Panajot Pano. Despite that win Albanian could not progress further as they lost the first leg with 4–0 away from home. At the end of the tournament Albania ranked 9th in Europe. It is so far the most successful campaign for Albania's during the past.^{[8][9][10][11]}

Albania took part in the qualifiers for the 1966 World Cup in England, with Northern Ireland, Netherlands and Switzerland drawn in their group. Albania's only point in the group came from a 1–1 home draw to Northern Ireland in Tirana, which denied Northern Ireland a place in the Finals. In UEFA Euro 1968 qualification, Albania had a 0–0 home draw with West Germany that denied the Germans participation in the final tournament. During this day their only non Participation during an UEFA Euro competition. The Germans called it the "Schmach von Tirana", this match is known to this day in Germany as the worst result ever in German Football history.^[12][13][14]

Albania participated for the first time in football at the 1964 Summer Olympics in the men's qualification tournament. They faced Bulgaria in the preliminary round, losing both matches, in close games, in the process.^[15] They participated for the second and last time ever at the 1972 Summer Olympics in which they faced Romania at the Men's European Qualifiers in the playoffs. Albania lost both matches close with 2–1 away despite an equalizer of Medin Zhega in the first leg. They would lose once again with 1–2 in the second leg despite a leading goal from Panajot Pano. So far their last time participating for any Olympic Games in Football.^[16][17]

In their UEFA Euro 1972 qualifying they faced in Group 8: West Germany, Poland and Turkey. Albania had a bad start during the campaign, as they lost their first three matches. Poland 3-0 away, Turkey away 2-1 although they were able to equalize with a goal by Astrit Ziu. Their third loss in a row came against Germany in a hard fought match, the Germans won just 0-1 with a goal from Gerd Müller. In the next three matches Albania were able to improve significant, as they were able to draw at the Qemal Stafa Stadium in a draw against Poland 1-1 thanks to an equalizer by Medin Zhega, earning Albania's first point during the qualification. ^[18] Their next match was a loss against the Germans in the Wildparkstadion in which Netzer and Jürgen Grabowski scored the goals. ^{[19] [20]} In their last match they faced Turkey at home. In which the Albanians showed an impressive performance beating turkey 3-0 by two goals from Përnaska and one by Panajot Pano to secure Albania's first and only win during this qualification, in which Albania finished last in the Group with 3 Points but with 5 goals scored and nine conceded during the Qualification.^{[21] [22]}

After six years of virtually no international matches, Albania managed to return to international football, participating in the 1982 FIFA World Cup qualification. In Group 1, Albania managed to end above last place, which Finland got instead. They only win came in September 1980 against Finland thanks to the goals of Sefedin Braho and Millan Baçi. In the 1984 European Championship qualifiers, Albania finished in last place in their group of five teams. On the other hand, Albania had some impressive results against bigger teams. They lost 0–1 away to Turkey with the goal being scored in the 86th minute. In the next two games, Albania tied Northern Ireland to a scoreless draw and lost 1–2 to Germany, both at home. In the last three matches, Albania tied Turkey in the Qemal Stafa Stadium and lost 2–1 to Austria in Tirana. The last game of the competition was an away game to Germany. Albania went ahead 0–1 with a goal by Genc Tomorri. However, they were tied one minute later, and after Genc Tomorri was sent off by the referee after a simulation of Rudi Völler, Albania had to play for 60 minutes with one man down. Eventually Albania lost 2–1 with the last goal being scored in the 79th minute.^[23]

In the 1986 FIFA World Cup qualification Albania faced Belgium, Poland and their rivals Greece. Despite their first loss away from home against Belgium, 3–1, despite an equalizer from Bedri Omuri. Albania could draw against Poland away with 2-2 scoring their first point. After that, Albania famously beat Belgium, at home, 2–0 in the Qemal Stafa Stadium. The goals were scored by Mirel Josa and Arben Minga securing Albania their first and only win in this qualification.^[24][25] It was their most successful qualification attempted during the "Enver Hoxha era" in the FIFA World Cup qualification, finishing third above Greece but behind Belgium and Poland in the process.

Albania managed to get impressive results against Germany during this campaign with Germany winning both matches only by 1-2 and 2–1. At home Hysen Zmijani were able to score an equalizer against the future UEFA Euro 1996 winners. Away in Germany, Albania once more lost close to Germany with a 2–1 defeat. Albania finished the campaign in the 5th place with 2 wins, 2 draws and 6 losses, Albania were able to beat Moldova) twice at home with 3-0 and away with 2–3 in an international qualifying tournament for the first time ever.^[26]

In the 1998 World Cup, Albania was drawn in a 6-team group which included Germany, Portugal, Ukraine, Northern Ireland and Armenia, Albania finished last with 4 points, but showed some respective results against the bigger teams. Their two matches with Germany saw them lose 2–3 at neutral ground and 3–4 in Hannover, taking the lead in both games. Albania got a 1–0 win against Northern Ireland and a 1–1 tie against Armenia. Despite those results they finished last in their Group.

In a relatively easy group, Albania only won once at home against Georgia. However, they memorably drew Greece 0–0 at home, Norway 2–2 and Latvia 0–0 (both away). Albania also drew Latvia 3–3 at home. All the other matches were narrowly lost.

After a loss to Finland, Albania won over Greece 2–0 with an own goal and a late goal of Ervin Fakaj. However, after that win, another 6 losses followed for Albania, which brought the Albanian Football Federation to think about hiring a foreign coach, 33 years after the last foreign coach, Luznikov, had led Albania in a Moscow tournament in 1959. After that they Appointed than Armando Duka as the new President of the Albanian Football Association.^[29] changing so the history of Albania by hiring mostly foreign coaches during his tenure.^[30]

After a poor start in which Albania would draw at home against Switzerland with 1–1 by a goal from Edvin Murati but lose in the next match away against Russia with 4-1 despite an earlier equalizer scored by Klodian Duro Albania sacked his manager Giuseppe Dossena^[31] to replace him with German Hans-Peter Briegel for the following match ^[32] against Russia in the Loro Boriçi Stadium in Shkodër. In which the Albanians won deservedly with 3-1 through goals from Altin Rraklli, Altin Lala and Igli Tare to secure Hans-Peter Briegel in his debut match, as a manager his maiden win for Albania.^[33][34] He led Albania to an undefeated run at home matches by drawing against Republic of Ireland 0–0 and beating in the last match Georgia 3–1 by goals from Besnik Hasi, Igli Tare and striker Alban Bushi. Despite the good results, Albania finished the group in the penultimate spot with eight points. Away Albania could not score any points, but managed to score 4 goals. Missing close out to the Playoffs stage by six points.

Two months after Greece beat Portugal to win the European Championship, Albania defeated Greece 2–1 at home by two quick goals from Edvin Murati and Adrian Aliaj, denting the Greeks' possibility to qualify. As the Albanians leading for the table for the first time ever in a qualification after this match. So far Albania's best ever win against their rivals Greece.^[35][36] Albania went on to disappoint by losing to Georgia away and Denmark at home, before returning to winning ways by beating Kazakhstan 0–1 with a goal from Alban Bushi. Then, Albania played Ukraine, Turkey, and Greece, losing all three matches. Later Albania beat Georgia 3–2 by two goals from Igli Tare and one from Ervin Skela as well as beating Kazakhstan with 2–1 by goals from Florian Myrtaj and striker Erjon Bogdani. The last positive result for Albania in this qualification would be a 2–2 away draw with Ukraine where Bogdani scoring two surprising goals. At the end, Albania got 13 points, and four wins, they surpassed for the first time in the history two nation's in the qualifying standings.^[37]

In the matches for the 2008 European qualifiers campaign, Albania have managed very good results as well as good team play in some matches compared to previous times. They started with a 2–2 away draw to Belarus, two wins against Luxembourg home and away (2–0, 3–0) and a 0–0 draw away to Bulgaria. They had two good matches against the Netherlands in both legs, although controversial refereeing ^[38][39] caused the matches to end up in two losses (2–1, 0–1). Other setbacks included a 0–0 draw against Slovenia and a 0–2 loss to Romania, both at home. Albania's hopes of qualifying mathematically ended when they failed to win over Slovenia away and managed another 0–0 draw. In the penultimate match at home against Bulgaria drawing 1-1. In the last match at home Albania losing 2–4 against Belarus. Albania's Euro campaign ended with a disastrous 6–1 away loss to Romania, Albania finished 5th above Luxembourg and Slovenia. Do to this Bad result Otto Barić resigned as the coach for Albania together with his assistant.^[40][41]

With Haan as coach Albania started 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification with a 0–0 draw against Sweden at home. Four days later, the Albanians defeated Malta 3–0 with goals from Erjon Bogdani, Armend Dallku and Klodian Duro. On 11 October 2008, Albania lost 2–0 to Hungary in Budapest and then surprisingly drew 0–0 with Portugal in Braga. On 11 February 2009, Albania drew with Malta in Ta'Qali 0–0. Albania then lost 1–0 to Hungary at home on 28 March 2009 and 3–0 to Denmark in Copenhagen on 1 April 2009. In the home match against Portugal, Hugo Almeida scored early for Portugal, before Albania equalised with a goal from Erjon Bogdani. However, with just a few seconds left in the game, Bruno Alves scored the winner for Portugal, eliminating Albania. At the end of the campaign, Albania drew 1–1 against Denmark and lost 4–1 to Sweden. Haan was replaced by Croatian coach Josip Kuže in May 2009.^[42]

However, Kuže failed to lead Albania to better results as the team ended the Euro 2012 qualifying with nine points from ten matches. Finishing only above Luxembourg in 5th place. As Albania were only able to win against Luxembourg at home by a goal from Hamdi Salihi, but they were able to draw away against Romania as well as against Bosnia and Herzegovina at home thanks to a free kick goal from Klodian Duro. Another win also came against Belarus with the same score of 1–0 by a goal from Hamdi Salihi once more. They ended their Fortune with an away draw once more to Romania, at home this time. Albania finished their campaign with two wins, three draws and also five defeats as well.^[43]

Josip Kuže parted ways with Albania three years and a half after he started the job, and in December 2011, Italian coach Gianni De Biasi replaced him.^[44] Albania started the qualifiers well, notably defeating Cyprus with 3–1 by goals from Armando Sadiku, Edgar Çani and Erjon Bogdani as well as beating Slovenia at home with 1–0 by a goal from Odise Roshi.^[45] which was followed by an unprecedent away win at Norway in Oslo after a stunning goal from Hamdi Salihi.^[46][47] Albania would also draw against Norway at home despite leading the match with a goal from Valdet Rama, this match ending in a 1–1 draw.^[48] The team was at one point 2nd with 6 matches played and 4 to spare, but failed to be successful in the last four, losing away in Slovenia and Iceland,^[49][50] as well at home against Switzerland,^[51] and drawing in Cyprus.^[52] With De Biasi, the Albania national team reached an unprecedented high number of players, who although are ethnically Albanian, were not born in Albania, but either in Kosovo, or outside of Kosovo, while hailing from Kosovo Albania parents. In 2011–13, 14 Albanians of Kosovo origin were either part of the start-up team, or had received recent call-ups.^[53]

The qualifying draw took place on 23 February 2014. Albania was drawn in Group I along with Portugal, Denmark, Serbia, and Armenia. Qualifying matches started in September 2014. Albania started the qualifiers with a historic result as they beat group favourites Portugal 1–0 away thanks to a goal from Bekim Balaj.^[56] In the second match against Denmark at the newly renovated Elbasan Arena, Albania was on lead by a goal from Ermir Lenjani until the 82nd minute where Lasse Vibe equalized, with the match ending in a 1–1 draw. In the next game against Serbia at Partizan Stadium, the match was abandoned in 42nd minute after several on and off the field incidents. Despite the violence by Serbia's hooligans against Albania at Partizan Stadium, Serbia was awarded the 3–0 victory after the decision by UEFA.^[57] The decision was appealed by both Serbia and Albania,^[58][59] but the decision was upheld by UEFA.^[60] Both associations then filed further appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport,^[61] and on 10 July 2015 the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected the appeal filed by the Serbian FA, and upholds in part the appeal filed by the Albanian FA, meaning the match is deemed to have been forfeited by Serbia with 0–3 and they are still deducted three points.^[62] In the fourth match against Armenia at home, Albania were behind from the 4th minute after an own goal from Mërgim Mavraj, but Mavraj equalized in the 77th minute with a powerful header. Four minutes later Shkëlzen Gashi scored the winner, putting Albania in the 2nd position along with Denmark with 10 points.^[63] It was the first time that Albania ended the first part of the qualifiers in the second spot. Albania made history again by beating one-time world champions and UEFA Euro 2016 hosts France at the Elbasan Arena in the "Group I" friendly match to a Freekick goal from Ergys Kaçe.^[64] After an unlucky draw against Denmark in Kopenhagen, Albania clinched at least a play-off place.^[65] Albania lost their next two matches, conceding goals in the last minute against Portugal 0-1^[66] and against Serbia as well in the derby with 0–2 in the Elbasan Arena.^[67][68] Albania than defeated Armenia 0–3 in Yerevan^[69] thanks to an early own goal followed by a header in the 23rd Minute by Berat Djimsiti and a late strike from Armando Sadiku, the Albanians than qualified for the UEFA Euro 2016^[70][71] its first appearance at a major men's football tournament after 50 years.^[72][73] For this achievement the entire team was bestowed the Honor of Nation Order by Albania's President Bujar Nishani.^[74] In addition to the qualification, Albania achieved a world record in terms of not conceding any away goals during the tournament, while scoring seven away goals.^[75] Albania made a record itself by winning most of their points away from home with 10 during their campaign, winning three out of four matches away during the process.

Pos	Team v t e	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts	Qualification
1	Portugal	8	7	0	1	11	5	+6	21	Qualify for final tournament
2	Albania	8	4	2	2	10	5	+5	14
3	Denmark	8	3	3	2	8	5	+3	12	Advance to play-offs
4	Serbia[a]	8	2	1	5	8	13	−5	4
5	Armenia	8	0	2	6	5	14	−9	2

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Manager: Gianni De Biasi

Albania named their final squad on 31 May.^[88]

No.	Pos.	Player	Date of birth (age)	Caps	Goals	Club
1	1GK	Etrit Berisha	(1989-03-10)10 March 1989 (aged 27)	35	0	Lazio
2	2DF	Andi Lila	(1986-02-12)12 February 1986 (aged 30)	58	0	PAS Giannina
3	3MF	Ermir Lenjani	(1989-08-05)5 August 1989 (aged 26)	19	3	Nantes
4	2DF	Elseid Hysaj	(1994-02-02)2 February 1994 (aged 22)	20	0	Napoli
5	2DF	Lorik Cana (captain)	(1983-06-27)27 June 1983 (aged 32)	91	1	Nantes
6	2DF	Frédéric Veseli	(1992-11-20)20 November 1992 (aged 23)	3	0	Lugano
7	2DF	Ansi Agolli	(1982-11-11)11 November 1982 (aged 33)	61	2	Qarabağ
8	3MF	Migjen Basha	(1987-01-05)5 January 1987 (aged 29)	19	3	Como
9	3MF	Ledian Memushaj	(1986-12-07)7 December 1986 (aged 29)	14	0	Pescara
10	4FW	Armando Sadiku	(1991-05-27)27 May 1991 (aged 25)	20	5	Vaduz
11	4FW	Shkëlzen Gashi	(1988-07-15)15 July 1988 (aged 27)	14	1	Colorado Rapids
12	1GK	Orges Shehi	(1977-09-25)25 September 1977 (aged 38)	7	0	Skënderbeu Korçë
13	3MF	Burim Kukeli	(1984-01-16)16 January 1984 (aged 32)	15	0	Zürich
14	3MF	Taulant Xhaka	(1991-03-28)28 March 1991 (aged 25)	12	0	Basel
15	2DF	Mërgim Mavraj	(1986-06-09)9 June 1986 (aged 30)	26	3	1. FC Köln
16	4FW	Sokol Cikalleshi	(1990-07-27)27 July 1990 (aged 25)	19	2	İstanbul Başakşehir
17	2DF	Naser Aliji	(1993-12-27)27 December 1993 (aged 22)	5	0	Basel
18	2DF	Arlind Ajeti	(1993-09-25)25 September 1993 (aged 22)	10	1	Frosinone
19	4FW	Bekim Balaj	(1991-01-11)11 January 1991 (aged 25)	15	1	Rijeka
20	3MF	Ergys Kaçe	(1993-07-08)8 July 1993 (aged 22)	16	2	PAOK
21	3MF	Odise Roshi	(1991-05-21)21 May 1991 (aged 25)	32	1	Rijeka
22	3MF	Amir Abrashi	(1990-03-27)27 March 1990 (aged 26)	18	0	SC Freiburg
23	1GK	Alban Hoxha	(1987-11-23)23 November 1987 (aged 28)	1	0	Partizani

Albania were drawn in Group A, against the hosts France, Switzerland and Romania. Albania lost their opening Game during their campaign with 1–0 against Switzerland to an early header in the 5th Minute from Fabian Schär despite being one man after a Red Card for Lorik Cana Albania held its ground as they came close to an equalizer as Shkëlzen Gashi as he missed a sitter in front of goalie Yann Sommer.^[89][90] In the following match they lost 2–0 to the hosts France despite a close fought match being able to defend against the favourites until the last minutes, conceding two goals from Dimitri Payet and Griezmann.^[91][92] While they beat in the third Group match Romania 1–0 by a header scored from Armando Sadiku before halftime, securing Albania's first ever win in a UEFA European Championship.^[93][94] The team finished last among the third-placed teams and were eliminated in the group stage.^[95] Finishing their first UEFA European Championship campaign in the 18th place.

Albania[97]

Switzerland[97]

GK 1 Etrit Berisha RB 4 Elseid Hysaj CB 5 Lorik Cana (c)  23'  36' CB 15 Mërgim Mavraj  90+2' LB 7 Ansi Agolli RM 22 Amir Abrashi CM 13 Burim Kukeli  89' LM 14 Taulant Xhaka  62' RW 21 Odise Roshi  74' LW 3 Ermir Lenjani CF 10 Armando Sadiku  82' Substitutions: MF 20 Ergys Kaçe  63'  62' FW 16 Sokol Cikalleshi  74' FW 11 Shkëlzen Gashi  82' Manager: Gianni De Biasi

GK 1 Yann Sommer RB 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (c) CB 22 Fabian Schär  14' CB 20 Johan Djourou LB 13 Ricardo Rodríguez CM 11 Valon Behrami  66' CM 10 Granit Xhaka RW 23 Xherdan Shaqiri  88' AM 15 Blerim Džemaili  76' LW 18 Admir Mehmedi  62' CF 9 Haris Seferovic Substitutions: FW 7 Breel Embolo  62' MF 8 Fabian Frei  76' MF 16 Gelson Fernandes  88' Manager: Vladimir Petković

France[99]

Albania[99]

GK 1 Hugo Lloris (c) RB 19 Bacary Sagna CB 4 Adil Rami CB 21 Laurent Koscielny LB 3 Patrice Evra CM 5 N'Golo Kanté  88' CM 14 Blaise Matuidi RW 20 Kingsley Coman  68' AM 8 Dimitri Payet LW 11 Anthony Martial  46' CF 9 Olivier Giroud  77' Substitutions: MF 15 Paul Pogba  46' FW 7 Antoine Griezmann  68' FW 10 André-Pierre Gignac  77' Manager: Didier Deschamps

GK 1 Etrit Berisha RB 4 Elseid Hysaj CB 18 Arlind Ajeti  85' CB 15 Mërgim Mavraj LB 7 Ansi Agolli (c) DM 13 Burim Kukeli  55'  74' CM 22 Amir Abrashi  81' CM 9 Ledian Memushaj RW 2 Andi Lila  71' LW 3 Ermir Lenjani CF 10 Armando Sadiku Substitutions: MF 21 Odise Roshi  71' MF 14 Taulant Xhaka  74' DF 6 Frédéric Veseli  85' Manager: Gianni De Biasi

Romania[101]

Albania[101]

GK 12 Ciprian Tătărușanu RB 22 Cristian Săpunaru  85' CB 21 Dragoș Grigore CB 6 Vlad Chiricheș (c) LB 2 Alexandru Mățel  54' CM 18 Andrei Prepeliță  46' CM 5 Ovidiu Hoban RW 20 Adrian Popa  68' AM 10 Nicolae Stanciu LW 19 Bogdan Stancu CF 9 Denis Alibec  57' Substitutions: MF 17 Lucian Sânmărtean  46' MF 11 Gabriel Torje  90+3'  57' FW 14 Florin Andone  68' Manager: Anghel Iordănescu

GK 1 Etrit Berisha RB 4 Elseid Hysaj  90+4' CB 18 Arlind Ajeti CB 15 Mërgim Mavraj LB 7 Ansi Agolli (c) DM 8 Migjen Basha  6'  83' CM 22 Amir Abrashi CM 9 Ledian Memushaj  85' RW 2 Andi Lila LW 3 Ermir Lenjani  77' CF 10 Armando Sadiku  59' Substitutions: FW 19 Bekim Balaj  59' MF 21 Odise Roshi  77' DF 5 Lorik Cana  83' Manager: Gianni De Biasi

Man of the Match: Arlind Ajeti (Albania)[102]

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts	Qualification
1	France (H)	3	2	1	0	4	1	+3	7	Advance to knockout stage
2	Switzerland	3	1	2	0	2	1	+1	5
3	Albania	3	1	0	2	1	3	−2	3
4	Romania	3	0	1	2	2	4	−2	1

Despite the UEFA European Championship's almost successful debut, Albania suffered massive setback. In 2018 World Cup qualification, Albania had been thrown into a tough group composing Spain and Italy. Albania, despite its passionate play, failed to reach the World Cup, falling to both Italy and Spain as well as a shocking 0–3 loss to Israel at home.^[103] During this era, their successful manager, Gianni De Biasi, resigned and Christian Panucci, another Italian, replaced him as coach of Albania.^[104] The situation however did not improve significantly. Albania played poorly in the 2018–19 UEFA Nations League, winning only to Israel 1–0 and lost the remaining three, especially the devastating 0–4 defeat to Scotland at home.^[105]

Panucci would be sacked after a 0–2 defeat to Turkey in the opening campaign for the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying.^[106] Another Italian, Edoardo Reja, was appointed to help Albania to improve in a tough group,^[107][108] but improvement is still very little. The Albanian side continued to slump, suffering a 0–1 loss away to Iceland^[109] before managed to gain its second win against Moldova 2–0.^[110] Reja would lead Albania in their encounter against world champions France in Paris, where the Albanians suffered a 1–4 loss, the match was also marred with controversy after Andorran anthem was mistakenly played instead of Albanian one.^[111] Albania managed one of its biggest feat in their qualification, beating 2018 World Cup participant Iceland 4–2 at home soil to keep the team on track.^[112] Despite this outcome, Albanians, despite its passionate display, lost 0–1 in final minutes because of defensive mistake, thus losing every chance to qualify for the UEFA Euro 2020.^[113] In the next match, Albania won comfortably 4–0 versus Moldova at Zimbru Stadium, though it was not enough to prevent Albania from elimination.^[114]

Pos	Team v t e	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts	Qualification
1	France	10	8	1	1	25	6	+19	25	Qualify for final tournament		—	1–1	4–0	4–1	3–0	2–1
2	Turkey	10	7	2	1	18	3	+15	23			2–0	—	0–0	1–0	1–0	4–0
3	Iceland	10	6	1	3	14	11	+3	19	Advance to play-offs via Nations League		0–1	2–1	—	1–0	2–0	3–0
4	Albania	10	4	1	5	16	14	+2	13			0–2	0–2	4–2	—	2–2	2–0
5	Andorra	10	1	1	8	3	20	−17	4			0–4	0–2	0–2	0–3	—	1–0
6	Moldova	10	1	0	9	4	26	−22	3			1–4	0–4	1–2	0–4	1–0	—

Albania faced in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group I for Katar, they faced England, Poland, Hungary, Andorra and San Marino. Notably beat twice in fact with the same score.^[115] Albania finished third in the Group with a record of six wins and 18 points along the way in the standings finishing third for the second time running during the qualifications.^[116]

Albania and Edoardo Reja would go their separate ways after a shocking display for Albania in the 2022–23 UEFA Nations League Group 2 in Division B.^[117] In which the Albanians were performing badly especially against Israel losing at home 1-2 and away with the same score. Securing only two points in total both against Iceland 1-1 and 1–1 away as well. Still Albania secured another year in the same Division B after Russia being excluded from Group 2.^[118]

In the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying Group E Albania were drawn together with Czech Republic, Poland, Faroe Islands and Moldova.^[119] In which the new coach Sylvinho gave his debut for the Country.^[120] Albania lost his first match against Poland away close with 1-0 despite playing well.^[121] In the following matches Albania would not lose any of them. Beating Moldova at home 2–0 with Jasir Asani scoring the goal of the matchday for his side.^[122] Followed by a win against the Faroe Islands 1–3 away in which Kristjan Asllani scored a beautiful UEFA match day winning goal for the second time running for Albania in their campaign.^[123] After a hard earned 1–1 draw in Prague against the Czech Republic with a screamer goal from Nedim Bajrami.^[124] Albania were able to beat Poland in the Arena Kombëtare with 2-0 and another Jasir Asani mega goal.^[125] For the third time Albania scored the most beautiful goal of the matchday.^[126] They would also beat the Czech Republic with a dominant 3-0 display.^[127] Albania would secure the Qualification for the second time in the History for the UEFA European Championship at the UEFA Euro 2024^[128] in Germany, after drawing to Moldova 1-1 despite leading most of the match.^[129][130] Although drawing once more against the Faroe Islands Albania would finish the qualifications in the first place with 15 Points for the first time ever in their history.^[131] Being also eight matches unbeaten during that period.^[132] They secured the second pot for the UEFA Group stage draws after ranking 10th in the power rankings, do to their great performance.^[133][134]

Pos	Team v t e	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts	Qualification
1	Albania	8	4	3	1	12	4	+8	15[a]	Qualify for final tournament
2	Czech Republic	8	4	3	1	12	6	+6	15[a]
3	Poland	8	3	2	3	10	10	0	11	Advance to play-offs via Nations League
4	Moldova	8	2	4	2	7	10	−3	10
5	Faroe Islands	8	0	2	6	2	13	−11	2

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Manager: Sylvinho

Albania announced a squad of 27 players on 27 May 2024.^[143] The final 26-man squad was officially announced on 8 June, with goalkeeper Simon Simoni being left out.^[144]

No.	Pos.	Player	Date of birth (age)	Caps	Goals	Club
1	1GK	Etrit Berisha	(1989-03-10)10 March 1989 (aged 35)	81	0	Empoli
2	2DF	Iván Balliu	(1992-01-01)1 January 1992 (aged 32)	13	0	Rayo Vallecano
3	2DF	Mario Mitaj	(2003-08-06)6 August 2003 (aged 20)	14	0	Lokomotiv Moscow
4	2DF	Elseid Hysaj	(1994-02-02)2 February 1994 (aged 30)	84	2	Lazio
5	2DF	Arlind Ajeti	(1993-09-25)25 September 1993 (aged 30)	26	1	CFR Cluj
6	2DF	Berat Djimsiti (captain)	(1993-02-19)19 February 1993 (aged 31)	58	1	Atalanta
7	4FW	Rey Manaj	(1997-02-24)24 February 1997 (aged 27)	34	8	Sivasspor
8	3MF	Klaus Gjasula	(1989-12-14)14 December 1989 (aged 34)	28	0	Darmstadt 98
9	4FW	Jasir Asani	(1995-05-19)19 May 1995 (aged 29)	13	4	Gwangju
10	3MF	Nedim Bajrami	(1999-02-28)28 February 1999 (aged 25)	23	4	Sassuolo
11	4FW	Armando Broja	(2001-09-10)10 September 2001 (aged 22)	21	5	Fulham
12	1GK	Elhan Kastrati	(1997-02-02)2 February 1997 (aged 27)	2	0	Cittadella
13	2DF	Enea Mihaj	(1998-07-05)5 July 1998 (aged 25)	19	0	Famalicão
14	3MF	Qazim Laçi	(1996-01-19)19 January 1996 (aged 28)	27	3	Sparta Prague
15	4FW	Taulant Seferi	(1996-11-15)15 November 1996 (aged 27)	19	3	Baniyas
16	3MF	Medon Berisha	(2003-10-21)21 October 2003 (aged 20)	1	0	Lecce
17	4FW	Ernest Muçi	(2001-03-19)19 March 2001 (aged 23)	10	3	Beşiktaş
18	2DF	Ardian Ismajli	(1996-09-30)30 September 1996 (aged 27)	38	2	Empoli
19	4FW	Mirlind Daku	(1998-01-01)1 January 1998 (aged 26)	5	1	Rubin Kazan
20	3MF	Ylber Ramadani	(1996-04-12)12 April 1996 (aged 28)	35	1	Lecce
21	3MF	Kristjan Asllani	(2002-03-09)9 March 2002 (aged 22)	20	2	Inter Milan
22	3MF	Amir Abrashi	(1990-03-27)27 March 1990 (aged 34)	50	1	Grasshoppers
23	1GK	Thomas Strakosha	(1995-03-19)19 March 1995 (aged 29)	28	0	Brentford
24	2DF	Marash Kumbulla	(2000-02-08)8 February 2000 (aged 24)	19	0	Sassuolo
25	2DF	Naser Aliji	(1993-12-27)27 December 1993 (aged 30)	14	0	Voluntari
26	4FW	Arbër Hoxha	(1998-10-06)6 October 1998 (aged 25)	4	0	Dinamo Zagreb

On 17 November 2023, Albania qualified for UEFA Euro 2024, their second major tournament.^[145] They were drawn in Group B, which is considered the group of death by many fans, containing then three-time Euro winners Spain, two-time Euro winners and defending champions Italy, as well as Croatia, which came third in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In their first match they faced defending Champions Italy in Dortmund.^[146] Albania would start great to this game as Nedim Bajrami would score after just 24 seconds, with a vital strike, after a misleading three throw from Dimarco. Marking a record by scoring the fastest goal ever at the UEFA Euro Championships.^[147] But the Albanians could not hold on their result as Italy struck back with two fast goals from Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolò Barella. Albania was not able to turn the result around and would eventually lose this match close with 2-1 at the end.^[148][149] In their next match they faced Croatia in Hamburg. In a tight match Albania were leading by a goal from Qazim Laçi despite the lead they had other chances to go ahead but could not score so at half time they finished with the same result. After the break, they conceded two quick goals in the 76th and 78th minutes with one goal being from Andrej Kramarić and the other one being an own goal caused by Klaus Gjasula. Despite being down Albania fought hard to the end, to earn its well deserved draw after an important goal by Gjasula right at the end of the match.^[150] The Albanians secured an important draw and their first point, during this Group.^[151][152] Albania achieved their second UEFA Euro record as Klaus Gjasula achieved it as a substitute player to score a goal and an own goal during his match. In their third and last match they faced Spain in the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Düsseldorf. The circumstances were tough for Albania as they needed a win to secure a qualification for the Round of sixteen.^[153] Spain despite putting some players to rest would lead the charge and scored the goal in the 13th minute by Ferran Torres. Albania needing some more than forty to get along at this match as their only chance came by Kristjan Asllani in which his powerful shot was saved by Raya right before half time. After the break Albania were trying more offensively as they had their best phase during the 60th minute. In which Armando Broja had the best chance for his country, as Albania got a free kick in which Asllani chipped the ball right to his foot but he couldn't convert his chance as David Raya saved his chip ball. In the 69th minute Jasir Asani tried it with a long distance shot but his shot was an easy catch for the goalie. Despite that the Albanians were targetting the Spaniards more frequently, as Asllani got a good chance at the 77th minute but his shot missed the goal just slightly. Albania came the equalizer near especially in the 90+1 minute during the extra time in which Broja could not put the ball past the next as he could not find the right angle between his teammates, despite all efforts Albania would lose this match by 0-1 at the end, that would also finish their UEFA Euro hopes unfortunately.^[154] Albania proved the doubters wrong as Albania displayed a great performance despite being the underdog at the Group of death showcasing their potential as a football nation, for the future.^{[155][156][157]} They finished last in their Group with one point losing their two competitive matches by just one goal each against Italy and Spain during the process and with one draw as well. They finished their UEFA Euro 2024 journey in the 24th place.^[158]

Nedim Bajrami scored for Albania after 23 seconds, netting the fastest goal in the UEFA European Championship history.^[159]

Italy[161]

Albania[161]

GK 1 Gianluigi Donnarumma (c) RB 2 Giovanni Di Lorenzo CB 23 Alessandro Bastoni CB 5 Riccardo Calafiori  51' LB 3 Federico Dimarco  83' CM 8 Jorginho CM 18 Nicolò Barella  90+2' RW 7 Davide Frattesi AM 10 Lorenzo Pellegrini  21'  77' LW 14 Federico Chiesa  77' CF 9 Gianluca Scamacca  83' Substitutions: MF 16 Bryan Cristante  77' DF 24 Andrea Cambiaso  77' FW 19 Mateo Retegui  83' DF 13 Matteo Darmian  83' FW 25 Michael Folorunsho  90+2' Manager: Luciano Spalletti

GK 23 Thomas Strakosha RB 4 Elseid Hysaj CB 6 Berat Djimsiti (c) CB 5 Arlind Ajeti LB 3 Mario Mitaj CM 21 Kristjan Asllani CM 20 Ylber Ramadani CM 10 Nedim Bajrami  87' RF 9 Jasir Asani  68' CF 11 Armando Broja  51'  77' LF 15 Taulant Seferi  68' Substitutions: FW 26 Arbër Hoxha  74'  68' MF 14 Qazim Laçi  68' FW 7 Rey Manaj  77' FW 17 Ernest Muçi  87' Manager: Sylvinho

Croatia[163]

Albania[163]

GK 1 Dominik Livaković RB 22 Josip Juranović CB 6 Josip Šutalo CB 4 Joško Gvardiol LB 14 Ivan Perišić  84' CM 10 Luka Modrić (c) CM 11 Marcelo Brozović  46' CM 8 Mateo Kovačić RF 7 Lovro Majer  46' CF 17 Bruno Petković  69' LF 9 Andrej Kramarić  84' Substitutions: MF 25 Luka Sučić  46' MF 15 Mario Pašalić  46' FW 16 Ante Budimir  69' DF 19 Borna Sosa  84' MF 26 Martin Baturina  84' Other disciplinary actions: TS — Vedran Ćorluka[164][165]  65' GK 23 Ivica Ivušić  87' Manager: Zlatko Dalić

GK 23 Thomas Strakosha RB 4 Elseid Hysaj  77' CB 6 Berat Djimsiti (c) CB 5 Arlind Ajeti LB 3 Mario Mitaj CM 21 Kristjan Asllani CM 20 Ylber Ramadani  85' CM 14 Qazim Laçi  72' RF 9 Jasir Asani  64' CF 7 Rey Manaj  85' LF 10 Nedim Bajrami Substitutions: FW 15 Taulant Seferi  64' MF 8 Klaus Gjasula  90+7'  72' FW 26 Arbër Hoxha  85' FW 19 Mirlind Daku  90+3'  85' Manager: Sylvinho

Albania[167]

Spain[167]

GK 23 Thomas Strakosha RB 2 Iván Balliu CB 6 Berat Djimsiti (c) CB 5 Arlind Ajeti LB 3 Mario Mitaj CM 20 Ylber Ramadani CM 21 Kristjan Asllani RW 9 Jasir Asani  82' AM 14 Qazim Laçi  71' LW 10 Nedim Bajrami  66'  71' CF 7 Rey Manaj  58' Substitutions: FW 11 Armando Broja  58' FW 16 Medon Berisha  89'  71' FW 26 Arbër Hoxha  71' FW 17 Ernest Muçi  82' Other disciplinary actions: TS — Ervin Bulku[note 3]  52' Manager: Sylvinho

GK 1 David Raya RB 22 Jesús Navas (c) CB 5 Daniel Vivian  90' CB 14 Aymeric Laporte  46' LB 12 Álex Grimaldo CM 18 Martín Zubimendi CM 6 Mikel Merino RW 11 Ferran Torres  71' AM 10 Dani Olmo  84' LW 21 Mikel Oyarzabal  62' CF 9 Joselu  71' Substitutions: DF 3 Robin Le Normand  46' FW 25 Fermín López  62' FW 19 Lamine Yamal  71' FW 7 Álvaro Morata  71' MF 15 Álex Baena  84' Manager: Luis de la Fuente

Pos	Team	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts	Qualification
1	Spain	3	3	0	0	5	0	+5	9	Advance to knockout stage
2	Italy	3	1	1	1	3	3	0	4
3	Croatia	3	0	2	1	3	6	−3	2
4	Albania	3	0	1	2	3	5	−2	1

Albania were drawn into Group K of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification, with England, Serbia, Latvia and Andorra.^[170][171] Many fans were shocked to see Albania and Serbia put in the same group due to past incidents in the UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying.^[172][173]

Others questioned if another incident would occur during those qualification matches.^[174] In their first match, they faced England in the Wembley Stadium in London. Despite a good performance, they lost the match 2-0 by goals from Myles Lewis-Skelly and Harry Kane in the process.^[175][176] In the following match, Albania faced Andorra in the Arena Kombëtare where they were able to secure also its highest win at the qualification beating them 3-0 by two goals from Rey Manaj in the 9th and 19th minute and by one goal from Myrto Uzuni at the end of the match to secure Albania its first win during their qualifications campaign.^[177]

In the following match, they faced Serbia at home in the derby^[178] at the Air Albania Stadium. Despite an impressive defensive performance, Albania was not able to create many chances apart from counter attacks were Armando Broja could not find Arbër Hoxha as his pass was cleared by the Serbian defender, right before scoring. The main highlight came for Albania in the 45th minute where Albania was getting a penalty, but despite the opportunity, Manaj missed the chance to score as his pen was saved by the Serbian Goalkeeper. Nothing happened in the second half, so this match ended in a peaceful 0-0 draw.^[179] At the following match against Latvia in Riga, Albania would show its worst performance in this group as they would secure only a 1-1 draw without even scoring as a team as their only goal came by Antonijs Černomordijs who scored an own goal for Albania and would later go on to score the equalizer for his country.^[180]

Despite the challenging situation, Albania faced after this match, they were able to win their next three matches in a row. Starting with their first win against Latvia at home, where Kristjan Asllani scored the vital penalty to secure an important 1-0 final result.^[181]

Their next opponent was Serbia. Due to safety concerns, that match was played in the Dubočica Stadium instead in Belgrade.^[182] At the start of the match, Albania had to find its rhythm, as Serbia had a chance with Mitrovic during the start of the match. Despite that, Albania found its way through and was able to score with Rey Manaj in the 45+1 minute before half time. He celebrated this goal with a double-headed eagle celebration that gave him a yellow card.^[183] Albania also had a chance with Nedim Bajrami in the 90+2 minute to score the second goal of this match, but Petrovic would save his shot at the process. Despite that, Albania would secure its third and most vital win during this qualification circle.^{[184][185][186]} As this win puts them four points ahead of Serbia.^[187][188]

In their next match they faced, Andorra, at the Estadi de la FAF for the decider. Things would be tougher as Andorra did defend pretty well during this match, chances were rare. But the Albanians kept insisting and would score the vital goal in the 67th minute in which Kristjan Asllani scored the sole goal during this match, after a well executed counter attack. Albania would win this match, whilst also Serbia lost their match^[189] in hand against England, to secure Albania a playoff spot ^[190] after this important win, their fourth win, and their third consecutive win, without conceding any goals during this qualification. It marks their fifth win in a row as a national footbal team, a feat they achieved for the first in their football history as a nation.^[191]

In their last match, they faced England at home.^[192] Despite the chances Albania had especially at the start of the second half, in which Arbër Hoxha had his best chances in the game, in the 49th Minute his shot was saved superbly by Jordan Pickford. One minute later he got a well served pass by Nedim Bajrami, but he couldn't convert it as his, shoot got right to the hands of the goalie. Despite all that it was England, who would secure this win after two goals scored by Harry Kane in the 73rd and 82nd minute of the game, securing them their 8th win in their entire qualifications,^[193] whilst Albania would lose for the second time during the qualifications. Albania would finish this Group in second place with 14 Points four wins two draws and two loses, securing them the playoffs for the first time ever during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.^[194] It was Albania's best ever qualification as well as they finished second during a qualification, for the first time during the history, as a football nation.^[195][196]

Pos	Team v t e	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts	Qualification
1	England	8	8	0	0	22	0	+22	24	Qualification for 2026 FIFA World Cup
2	Albania	8	4	2	2	7	5	+2	14	Advance to play-offs
3	Serbia	8	4	1	3	9	10	−1	13
4	Latvia	8	1	2	5	5	15	−10	5
5	Andorra	8	0	1	7	3	16	−13	1

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