History of the Albania national football team
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The history of the Albania national football team dates back to the team's formation and first ever international match in 1946.
1930–45: Founding and early years
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.[1] The FSHF was founded on 6 June 1930, and two years later, Albania joined FIFA. It was not until 1946, however, that Albania hosted its first international match against Yugoslavia. In 1954, Albania was one of the founding members of UEFA.
1946: Champion of the Balkans
The early years saw a notably successful Balkan Cup run in 1946. Albania won their group over favourites Yugoslavia by earning a better goal difference. After defeating Bulgaria 3–1 in the semifinal, Albania won the tournament by defeating Romania 1–0 in the final. Albania initially wasn't expected to participate in the tournament, but the withdrawal of Greece offered Albania a chance to join in the re-established post-war cup.[2]
1958–68: Among the Top 16 Teams on the Continent
Albania did not participate in qualifiers for the 1960 European Nations' Cup. Four years later, Albania competed in 1964 European Nations' Cup qualification for the first time, earning forfeit victories against Greece in the opening ties, earning them a place in the Round of 16.[3] Albania drew Denmark in the next round, losing 4–0 in the first leg and winning the second leg 1–0 thanks to an early goal from Panajot Pano despite that, ending their cup run with a 4–1 aggregate defeat.[4] At the end of the tournament Albania ranked 9th in Europe for the first and only time in its history. Also Winning three Matches in their debut campaign.[5][6][7]
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.[8][9]
1964–72 Albania participating in Football at the Summer Olympics qualifying tournaments
Albania participated in Olympic qualifying for the first time in 1964. The Albanians faced Bulgaria in the opening round, losing both matches 1–0 and failing to qualify for the next round.[10] It wasn't until the 1972 Summer Olympics held in Munich that Albania made another attempt to qualify. Facing Romania in the opening round, they lost both legs 2–1, despite goals from Medin Zhega and Panajot Pano, respectively.[11]
1980–84: Return to competitions and nearly Qualified for the World Cup in Mexico in 1986
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. In 8 matches, Albania got 2 points, with 2 draws, 6 losses, and no wins. 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. After 22 minutes, 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.[12]
In the 1986 FIFA World Cup qualification Albania would face in this qualification Belgium, Poland and their rivals Greece. In the first match they faced Belgium in Brussels. The Albanians lost with 3-1 despite the equalizer from Bedri Omuri in the 71st minute. Albania would face away from home against Poland in the Stadion Stali Mielec. They drew the result through goals from Bedri Omuri and even the leading goal from Agustin Kola with 2-1 but at the end Poland scored again. Albania missing out on their first win, in this qualification. After that Albania famously beat Belgium at home with 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.[13][14] As Albania loss their next two games against Greece away with 2-0 and against Poland at home close with 0–1. Missing out close to qualify for the 1986 FIFA World Cup. In their last match they faced Greece at home in Tirana. They go in front by a goal from Bedri Omuri but they couldn't hold on as Greece equalized the result in the 54th minute. At the end playing a 1–1 draw.[15] Despite finishing their campaign with four points in the third place. Albania came close to qualify as they nearly beat every opponent in this Group. It was their most successful FIFA World Cup qualification in the history of Albania.
1991–99: Transition years
Albania managed to get impressive results against Germany during this campaign with Germany winning both matches only by 2–1 and the winner coming only in the last minutes. Albania finished in last place with 2 wins, 2 draws and 6 losses due to having worse head-to-head results against Wales. However, Albania beat another country (Moldova) away in an international qualifying tournament for the first time.
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.
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.
2000–05: Failed qualifying campaigns
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 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[18] to replace him with German Hans-Peter Briegel for the following match [19] 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.[20][21] 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 couldn't 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 in a qualification after this match.[22][23] 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 in their best result then. They surpassed for the first time in the history two nation's in the qualifying standings.[24]
2006–10: Disappointing results under Barić and Haan
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 [25][26] 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, Albania played wonderfully, but ended up in a very unlucky draw. After going ahead, they conceded in the dying minutes and later missed a penalty. In the last match at home, Albania was hugely disappointing, losing 2–4 against Belarus. Contrary to the popular belief that this would be the easiest match during the campaign, Albania not only missed a chance to break the points-record of all competitions but also produced a very lethargic performance in a rainy night. Albania's Euro campaign ended with a disastrous 6–1 away loss to Romania, which eventually resulted in the resignation of the coach Otto Barić and his assistant.[27][28]
In December 2007, Football Association of Albania's president, Armand Duka, announced Arie Haan would replace Croatian-Austrian Otto Barić as Albania's head coach.[29] Haan signed a two-year contract on 4 January 2008. On 14 March 2008, Albania was suspended from international football (FIFA and UEFA), due to heavy political interference in the Football Association. The suspension lasted 46 days.[30][31][32]
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.[33]
2011–13: Revival under De Biasi
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.[34] 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.[35] which was followed by an unprecedent away win at Norway in Oslo after a stunning goal from Hamdi Salihi.[36][37] 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.[38] 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,[39][40] as well at home against Switzerland,[41] and drawing in Cyprus.[42] 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.[43][42]
2014–16: Success at the European Championship
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.[46] In the second match against Denmark at the newly renovated Elbasan Arena, Albania was on lead until the 82nd minute where Lasse Vibe equalized, with the match ending 1–1.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.[47] The decision was appealed by both Serbia and Albania,[48][49] but the decision was upheld by UEFA.[50] Both associations then filed further appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport,[51] 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.[52] 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.[53] 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 an Freekick goal from Ergys Kaçe.[54] After an unlucky draw against Denmark in Kopenhagen, Albania clinched at least a play-off place.[55] Albania lost their next two Matches conceding goals in the last minute against Portugal 0-1 [56] and against Serbia as well in the derby with 0–2 in the Elbasan Arena.[57][58] Albania than defeated Armenia 0–3 in Yerevan[59] 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[60][61] its first appearance at a major men's football tournament after 50 years.[62][63] For this achievement the entire team was bestowed the Honor of Nation Order by Albania's President Bujar Nishani.[64] 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.[65]
UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying Group I standings
| Pos | Team | 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 |
- ↑ The Serbia v Albania match was awarded as a 3–0 win to Albania, and Serbia were also deducted three points, after the match was abandoned at 0–0 because home fans invaded the pitch and attacked Albania players when a drone carried a pro-Albanian flag over the stadium.
After the Serbia–Albania match, the national team of Albania was given awards of honor and city recognition by the cities of Tirana, Vlore, Kamëz, and Bajram Curri for protecting the national symbols. As they celebrate their historic qualifying during the team parade in the capital city of Tirana.[66]
Albania's UEFA Euro 2016 Team
Manager: Gianni De Biasi
Albania named their final squad on 31 May.[67]
| 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 |
Group A of the UEFA European Championship 2016 in France
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 down to a Red Card for Lorik Cana Albania held its ground as they came close to an equalizer as Shkëlzen Gashi as he missed an sitter in front of goali Yann Sommer.[68][69] In the following match they lost 2–0 to the hosts France despite an close fought match being able to defend against the favourites until the last minutes conceding two goals from Dimitri Payet and Griezmann.[70][71] 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.[72][73] The team finished last among the third-placed teams and were eliminated in the group stage.[74] Finishing their first campaign UEFA European Championship in the 18th place.
Albania's Match Results during the UEFA European Championship 2016
Albania vs Switzerland
      Albania[76]
|
     Switzerland[76]
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France vs Albania
     France[78]
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  Albania[78]
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Romania vs Albania
Romania  | 0–1 | Albania |
|---|---|---|
| Report |
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     Romania[80]
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  Albania[80]
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Man of the Match:
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UEFA Euro 2016 Group A Standings
| 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 |
2016–2022: Post European Championship
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.[82] During this era, their successful manager, Gianni De Biasi, resigned and Christian Panucci, another Italian, replaced him as coach of Albania.[83] 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.[84] Panucci would be sacked after a 0–2 defeat to Turkey in the opening campaign for the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying.[85] Another Italian, Edoardo Reja, was appointed to help Albania to improve in a tough group,[86][87] but improvement is still very little. The Albanian side continued to slump, suffering a 0–1 loss away to Iceland[88] before managed to gain its second win against Moldova 2–0.[89] Reja would lead Albania in their encounter against world champions France in Paris, where the Albanians suffered a devastating 1–4 loss, the match was also marred with controversy after Andorran anthem was mistakenly played instead of Albanian one.[90] After the defeat, 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.[91] Despite this outcome, Albania's trip to Turkey became a nightmare, when the 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.[92] In the next match, Albania won comfortably 4–0 versus Moldova at Zimbru Stadium, achieving the fourth win in group; by doing so, Albania set two records: it was the biggest away win in competitive matches and the first time in history that Albania has scored three goals in the first half in competitive matches and second time overall, though it was not enough to prevent Albania from elimination.[93]
Resurgence under Sylvinho (2022–present)
Following their narrow failure to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where Albania finished third in Group I,[94] Albania began a new cycle under head coach Sylvinho. In the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying Group E campaign, they were drawn alongside the Czech Republic, Poland, Faroe Islands and Moldova.[95] The team finished unbeaten with a record of five wins and three draws, conceding few goals and securing first place in the group. This achievement ensured qualification for the UEFA Euro 2024, marking only their second appearance in the UEFA European Championship.[96]
At UEFA Euro 2024, Albania were drawn into a "group of death" alongside the Spain, Italy and Croatia, all of whom were former European or World Cup winners or finalists.[97] Albania showed competitive performances throughout the tournament, notably earning a 2–2 draw against Croatia, while narrowly losing to Italy and suffering defeat to Spain. With one point from three matches (one draw and two losses), the team finished fourth in the group, scoring and conceding multiple goals, and were eliminated in the group stage.[98]
Following the European Championship, Albania competed in the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League B, where they were relegated to League C after finishing in the lower positions of their group.[99]
Albania then participated in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification, competing in Group K. The team recorded several positive results, including victories without conceding and multiple draws, which allowed them to secure a place in the play-offs for the first time in their history.[100]
In the play-off match held on 26 March 2026 against the Poland, Albania initially took the lead and created several scoring opportunities, including a notable missed chance by Nedim Bajrami in the second half. However, they conceded twice and lost 2–1, resulting in elimination and ending their hopes of qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup.[101]
References
- ↑ "Zemra Shqiptare". Retrieved 19 June 2015.
- ↑ Besnik Dizdari (2007). Ballkaniada 1946: Shqipëria – kampione e Ballkanit ne startin e "Luftës së ftohtë" në Evropë. Rozafat. pp. 2–10. ISBN 978-99943-979-0-7.
- ↑ ""Euro 1964" / Greqia refuzoi nga "ligji i luftës", u kualifikua Shqipëria" [“Euro 1964” / Greece refused due to “war law”, Albania qualified] (in Albanian). Ekskluzive.al. 30 October 2018. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
- ↑ "1963: Dy fitore 3–0 Greqisë dhe Shqipëria në 16-she të Europës!" (in Albanian). Panorama Sport. 6 September 2014. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Shqipëria në fazën finale? Nuk është hera e parë!" [Albania in finale phase, its not the first time] (in Albanian). Panorama Sport. 14 October 2015. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
- ↑ UEFA. "Victories of Albania until Euro2016 qualifiers". Retrieved 17 October 2015.
- ↑ Dizdari, Besnik (15 October 2015). "Dr. Armillotta ka të drejtë". Panorama-Sport. Retrieved 17 October 2015.
- ↑ "Euro 1968/ Kur Kombëtarja e Shqipërisë eliminonte Gjermaninë" [Euro 1968/ When Albania national team eliminated Germany] (in Albanian). Opinion.al. 13 May 2016. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
- ↑ "1967: Risitë e të vërtetave të Shqipëria-Gjermania 0-0…" [1967: The innovations of the truths of Albania-Germany 0-0…] (in Albanian). Panorama Sport. 19 December 2017. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
- ↑ "Besnik Dizdari: E vërteta e pjesëmarrjes së Shqipërisë në Lojërat Olimpike".
- ↑ "Games of the XX. Olympiad - Football Qualifying Tournament".
- ↑ Ndeshjet e pashlyeshme që çuan te "Drama e Trier-it"… Panorama Sport
- ↑ "Cikli Dossier/ Mirel Josa, "makthi i të huajve"". sportekspres.com. Archived from the original on 24 March 2015. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ↑ "Albanian Football: Chronological Photo Gallery and Soccer Results in Europe". Archived from the original on 6 February 2022. Retrieved 6 February 2022.
- ↑ "World Cup 1986".
- ↑ Shordi, Altin (18 October 2011). "Komiteti jep Ok; Hasi do kontratë afatgjatë dhe një ndihmës belg!" (in Albanian). Sport Ekspres. Archived from the original on 25 April 2012. Retrieved 6 January 2012.
- ↑ Can Erözden (12 October 2019). "Besnik Hasi: Jam nga Kosova e Shqipërisë. Gazetari grek: Kosova është e Serbisë" [Besnik Hasi: I'm from Kosovo of Albania. Greek journalist: Kosovo is of Serbia]. Anadolu Agency. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "SPECIALE/ Giussepe DOSSENA, rrugëtimi i dhimbshëm te SHQIPËRIA, që nuk rezultoi kurrë i kotë". 16 November 2018.
- ↑ "Hans-Peter Briegel do të jetë trajneri i kombëtares shqiptare - (16 Dhjetor 2002)". 16 December 2002.
- ↑ "Flying start for Briegel". 29 March 2003.
- ↑ "2003 (March 29) Albania 3-Russia 1 (EC Qualifier).avi - YouTube". YouTube. 30 October 2011.
- ↑ "17 vjet nga fitorja historike e Shqipërisë kundër Greqisë".
- ↑ "FOTO+VIDEO/ 4 shtator 2004, kur Shqipëria nënshtronte Greqinë kampione Europe".
- ↑ "Kur Brigel mposhtte trajnerët e mëparshëm të Shqipërisë…". www.panorama.com.al. Retrieved 25 March 2023.
- ↑ Disallowed Albanian goal, versus the Netherlands, Euro 2008 qualifier: ESPNsoccernet website. Retrieved on 14 September 2007.
- ↑ Albanian Football Federation Archived 2007-10-07 at the Wayback Machine, files official complaint with UEFA regarding Netherlands game: Albania soccer website. Retrieved on 16 September 2007.
- ↑ "Bariç jep dorëheqjen në ndeshjen e 100-të" [Barić resign in the 100th match] (in Albanian). Arkiva Shqiptare e Lajmeve. 21 November 2007. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ Jetmir Halilaj (22 November 2007). "Panorama Sport: Kombëtarja i bën puç, Bariç jep dorëheqjen" (in Albanian). Arkiva Shqiptare e Lajmeve. Archived from the original on 24 September 2018. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ Jeton Selimi (25 December 2007). "Ari Han eshte trajneri i ri" [Arie Haan is the new coach]. Koha Jonë. Arkiva Shqiptare e Lajmeve. Archived from the original on 15 October 2019. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
- ↑ "Albania suspension lifted by FIFA". Retrieved 25 March 2023.[dead link]
- ↑ "FIFA says its emergency committee has decided to lift suspension of Albania". Retrieved 25 March 2023.[permanent dead link]
- ↑ "FIFA lifts suspension of Albania over alleged interference". Retrieved 25 March 2023.
- ↑ Televizioni Koha. "Televizioni Koha - JOSIP KUZHE TRAJNER I SHQIPËRISË - Sport". Archived from the original on 19 June 2015. Retrieved 19 June 2015.
- ↑ "De Biasi Albania boss". Eurosport.com. Reuters. 14 December 2011. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- ↑ "Albania 3–1 Cyprus". Eurosport.com. 7 September 2012. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- ↑ "Shqipëria mposht Norvegjinë 0-1, shiko golin" [Albania defeats Norway 0-1, watch the goal] (in Albanian). Gazeta Panorama. 22 March 2013. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- ↑ "Kryevepër e kuqezinjve, Shqipëria ngrin vikingët" [Masterpiece of red and blacks, Albania freezes the vikings] (in Albanian). Gazeta Panorama. 23 March 2013. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- ↑ "Shqipëri-Norvegji: 1-1barazim në minutën '87 - Shqiptarja".
- ↑ "Shqipëria e pafat. Fiton Sllovenia" [Albania unlucky. Slovenia wins] (in Albanian). Lajme Shqip. 6 September 2013. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- ↑ "Brazil 2014, Islandë-Shqipëria 2-1, shuhen shpresat për kualifikim" [Brazil 2014, Iceland 2–1 Albania, the hopes for qualification are vanished] (in Albanian). Shqiptarja.com. 10 September 2013. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- ↑ "Shqipëria mposhtet në shtëpi, kualifikohet Zvicra" [Albania defeated at home, Switzerland qualifies] (in Albanian). Prizren Press. 12 October 2013. Archived from the original on 19 October 2019. Retrieved 19 October 2019.
- 1 2 Besnik Dizdari (4 April 2015). ""Revolucioni" i Kombëtares, atdhetaria dhe "pseudoatdhetaria"" (in Albanian). Panorama Sport. Retrieved 4 April 2016.
- ↑ "Kombëtarja e Kosovës brenda Kombëtares së Shqipërisë" [Kosovo national team inside Albania national team] (in Albanian). Mesazhi. 8 August 2013. Archived from the original on 4 October 2013. Retrieved 3 October 2013.
- ↑ "KAPITENI LEGJENDAR/ LORIK CANA, njeriu simbol dhe frymëzimi i çdo shqiptari" [Legendary captain/ Lorik Cana, the symbol man and inspiration of every Albanian]. sport.alpenews.al (in Albanian). 27 July 2018. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ Durim Nitaj (9 January 2018). "Lorik Cana – Karriera prej një legjende!" [Lorik Cana – A career of a legend!]. RTV21 (in Albanian). RTV21.tv. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ ""Bekim" kuqezi në Aveiro, Shqipëria shokon Portugalinë" [Red&black "blessing" in Aveiro, Albania shocks Portugal] (in Albanian). Panorama Sport. 7 September 2014. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
- ↑ "Disciplinary decision on Serbia-Albania match". UEFA. 24 October 2014. Retrieved 27 October 2014.
- ↑ AFP (24 October 2014). "Albania to appeal UEFA punishment over Serbia". Business Insider. Archived from the original on 29 June 2018. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ↑ "Serbia to appeal UEFA decision". Goal.com. 24 October 2014.
- ↑ "Decisions upheld for Serbia-Albania match". UEFA. 2 December 2014.
- ↑ "The football associations of Albania and Serbia file appeals at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)" (PDF). tas-cas.org. Court of Arbitration for Sport. Retrieved 8 January 2015.
- ↑ "FOOTBALL: The CAS rejects the appeal filed by the Serbian FA, upholds in part the appeal filed by the Albanian FA: the match Serbia-Albania is deemed to have been forfeited by Serbia (0-3)". Tribunal Arbitral du Sport / Court of Arbitration for Sport. 10 July 2015. Archived from the original on 11 July 2015. Retrieved 10 July 2015.
- ↑ "Albania head off Armenia threat". UEFA. 29 March 2015. Retrieved 5 September 2015.
- ↑ "Kaçe free-kick gives Albania win against France". UEFA. 13 June 2015. Retrieved 5 September 2015.
- ↑ "Shqipëria barazon 1-1 me Danimarkën, ëndrra për Euro 2016 vazhdon". 11 October 2014.
- ↑ "Shqipëria, edhe pse superiore, humb në minutën e fundit". 7 September 2015.
- ↑ "Shqipëria humb nga Serbia, por është vetëm një hap larg historisë". 8 October 2015.
- ↑ "Serbia Defeats Albania in Soccer Match Mostly Free of Tensions". Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. 9 October 2015.
- ↑ "Armenia 0-3 Albania". BBC Sport. 11 October 2015.
- ↑ "Historike, Shqipëria kualifikohet në Kampionatin Europian "Francë 2016"". Archived from the original on 23 December 2025. Retrieved 19 January 2026.
- ↑ "Albania win in Armenia to confirm qualification for first major tournament". The Guardian. 11 October 2015. Retrieved 17 September 2020.
- ↑ "Shqipëria në fazën finale? Nuk është hera e parë!".
- ↑ "The official website for European football".
- ↑ "Presidenti Nishani vlerëson arritjen historike të Kombëtares Shqiptare të Futbollit" [President Nishani praises the historic achievement of the Albanian National Football Team] (in Albanian). President.al. 12 October 2015. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Euro 2016 team-by-team guide". Dawn. 11 December 2015.
- ↑ Gazeta Tema (23 October 2014). "Folklorizmi shkon deri ne ekstrem". Archived from the original on 25 October 2014. Retrieved 25 October 2014.
- ↑ De Biasi shpall listën zyrtare të Euro 2016 Archived 2 June 2016 at the Wayback Machine FSHF.org
- ↑ "Albania 0-1 Switzerland". BBC Sport. 10 June 2016.
- ↑ "Euro 2016/Shqipëria humbet 0-1 përballë Zvicrës". 11 June 2016.
- ↑ "France 2-0 Albania". BBC Sport. 14 June 2016.
- ↑ "Shqipëria humb 0-2 kundër Francës, inagurohet stadiumi i ri". 17 November 2019.
- ↑ "Romania 0-1 Albania". BBC Sport. 18 June 2016.
- ↑ "Shqipëria fiton ndaj Rumanisë. Goli i parë historik në Europian, nga Armando Sadiku" [Albania wins against Romania. The first historic goal in the European Championship, by Armando Sadiku]. www.respublica.al (in Albanian). 19 June 2016. Archived from the original on 19 January 2026. Retrieved 19 January 2026.
- ↑ "Albania out of Euro 2016 after Portugal draw with Hungary". Fourfourtwo.com. 22 June 2016. Archived from the original on 9 October 2016. Retrieved 9 October 2016.
- ↑ "Full Time Summary – Albania v Switzerland" (PDF). UEFA.org. Union of European Football Associations. 11 June 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 9 November 2016. Retrieved 11 June 2016.
- 1 2 "Tactical Line-ups – Albania v Switzerland" (PDF). UEFA. Union of European Football Associations. 11 June 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 28 March 2017. Retrieved 11 June 2016.
- ↑ "Full Time Summary – France v Albania" (PDF). UEFA.org. Union of European Football Associations. 15 June 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 20 October 2016. Retrieved 15 June 2016.
- 1 2 "Tactical Line-ups – France v Albania" (PDF). UEFA. Union of European Football Associations. 15 June 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 28 March 2017. Retrieved 15 June 2016.
- ↑ "Full Time Summary – Romania v Albania" (PDF). UEFA.org. Union of European Football Associations. 19 June 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 9 November 2016. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
- 1 2 "Tactical Line-ups – Romania v Albania" (PDF). UEFA. Union of European Football Associations. 19 June 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 28 March 2017. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
- ↑ Burke, Chris (19 June 2016). "Albania await their fate after historic victory". UEFA. Union of European Football Associations. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
- ↑ "Israel beats Albania 3-0 in World Cup match played under terror threat". Times of Israel. 13 November 2016. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Panucci named Albania coach". Diario AS. 19 July 2017. Archived from the original on 17 April 2021. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ Southwick, Andrew (17 November 2018). "Albania 0–4 Scotland". BBC Sport. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Official: Albania sack Panucci". Football Italia. 23 March 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Edoardo Reja, the new manager of Albania". Albanian Football Association. 17 April 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Edoardo Reja, the new coach of the Albanian National Team". Ocnal.com. 17 April 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ Larissa Kyzer (9 June 2019). "Iceland Wins Euro Qualifier Against Albania, 1-0". Iceland Review. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Albania Wins Against Moldova 2-0 in UEFA Euro 2020 Qualifiers". Invest in Albania. 12 June 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "France 4–1 Albania". BBC Sport. 7 September 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Albania defeat Iceland 4-2 in Euro 2020 qualifier". Xinhua.net. 11 September 2019. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ Can Erözden (12 October 2019). "Football: Turkey beat Albania 1-0 in Euro 2020 quals". Anadolu Agency. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "VIDEO/ Spektakël i Shqipërisë, kuqezinjtë arrijnë fitore rekord në Moldavi" [Video/ Spectacle of Albania, redblacks achieve a record win in Moldova]. Panorama Sport. 15 October 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
- ↑ "Shqipëria nuk kualifikohet në Katar, por arrinë rezultatin historik në kualifikime" [Albania does not qualify for Qatar, but achieves a historic result in the qualifiers]. Albanian Post (in Albanian). 15 November 2021. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ Krasniqi, Altin (9 October 2022). "Shqipëria në një grup të "lehtë" për Euro 2024" [Albania in a "favourable" group for Euro 2024]. Dukagjini (in Albanian). Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ "Who has qualified for UEFA EURO 2024?". UEFA. 6 June 2024. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ Semini, Llazar (22 November 2023). "South American coaches lead Albania to Euro 2024 spot. Sylvinho gets a medal from prime minister". AP News. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ Anka, Carl; Corrigan, Dermot. "Croatia 2 Albania 2 - How did Croatia let it slip? How far can Albania go? Unluckiest own goal?". The New York Times. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ "UEFA Nations League standings". UEFA. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ "European Qualifiers standings". FIFA. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
- ↑ "VIDEO/ Ëndrra kuqezi bëhet makth në 10 minuta, gabimet në të dy portat eliminojnë Shqipërinë me përmbysje në Poloninë" [VIDEO/ Red-and-Black dream turns nightmare in 10 minutes, mistakes at both ends eliminate Albania in Poland]. Panorama Sport. 26 March 2026. Retrieved 3 April 2026.
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