Get ready for a friendly clash! The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Albania and England might seem like a low-stakes game, but both teams are eager to end the year on a high note. Let's dive into what you need to know about this exciting match!
England, already guaranteed a spot in next summer's tournament, made history as the first European team to qualify, thanks to their dominant 5-0 victory over Latvia. Under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, they've been unstoppable, winning all seven qualifiers, scoring a remarkable 20 goals while conceding none.
England is on a mission! They're aiming for their first major trophy since their 1966 World Cup win. They're definitely among the favorites and will be looking to keep their winning streak alive this weekend.
Albania, too, has secured their place, finishing second in Group K. England's win over Serbia and their triumph over Andorra secured a play-off spot for Sylvinho's side, who are chasing their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Here's a quick look at the head-to-head records and recent form:
- Head-to-Head (Last Five Games):
- Data not provided in the original content.
- Current Form (All Competitions):
- Albania:
- Andorra 0–1 Albania - 13/11/25
- Albania 4–2 Jordan - 14/10/25
- Serbia 0–1 Albania - 11/10/25
- Albania 1–0 Latvia - 09/09/25
- Gibraltar 0–1 Albania - 04/09/25
- England:
- England 2–0 Serbia - 13/11/25
- Latvia 0–5 England - 14/10/25
- England 3–0 Wales - 09/10/25
- Serbia 0–5 England - 09/09/25
- England 2–0 Andorra - 06/09/25
- Albania:
Where to Watch:
- United States: fuboTV, ViX
- United Kingdom: ITV 1, ITVX, STV, STV Player, UTV
- Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
- Mexico: Sky Sports Mexico, Sky+
Team Lineups and Key Players:
Albania's squad includes familiar faces for Premier League fans, such as Burnley striker Armando Broja. Ex-Brentford goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha will also be in the starting lineup. A significant portion of Albania’s squad plays in Italy, with Kristjan Asllani expected to start in midfield.
- Albania Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Strakosha; Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Shehu, Asllani; Broja, Laçi, Hoxha; Manaj.
While Tuchel is likely to make some changes to the team that beat Serbia, expect to see Jude Bellingham and Eberechi Eze in the team. Reece James might be rested, with Djed Spence possibly taking his place. Bukayo Saka should also start, along with captain Harry Kane.
- England Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Spence, Chalobah, Stones, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Eze; Kane.
Controversy Alert: There is no pressure on either side, but England is still expected to win. Their defense has been outstanding under Tuchel, with eight clean sheets in nine games. Albania's defense has also been solid, with six shutouts in their last eight games.
Final Prediction: England should secure an eighth consecutive qualification win.
Prediction: Albania 0–2 England
What do you think? Will England cruise to victory, or will Albania put up a fight? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
