A David versus Goliath encounter awaits when Albania takes on Spain in the final group game of the 2024 European Championship
Ranked 62nd in world football, Albania will face the almighty Spain, who are currently eighth in the FIFA rankings, as both sides look to end their Euro 2024 group campaign on a high.
Spain has been victorious in all their nine previous meetings with Albania, scoring 34 goals and conceding only three. Their most recent game ended in a 2-1 victory thanks to Dani Olmo’s dying-minute winner in a friendly in 2022.
The Albanians are eyeing a massive scalp as Euro 2016 was just their first time at a major tournament, yet they recorded their first goal and win in tournament football against Romania. Their return to this competition will include similar plans despite being paired in a group with some heavy hitters.
Former Arsenal and Barcelona star Sylvinho was handed the reigns of the Albania national team but defeated Poland in his debut match. However, their Brazilian manager turned things around with three wins and a draw in the next four games.
The Eagles oversaw their most notable result at home to ten-man Czechia with a 3-0 scoreline. Another 2-0 victory over Bulgaria followed, and Albania booked their place at the Euros finals with a nervy 1-1 draw in Moldova.
The next challenge was to finish as group winners, which they clinched in the final game with a goalless draw against Faroe Islands. Crucially, they achieved that feat under a +2 goal difference over the Czechs.
Albania finds themselves in the Euro 2024 ‘Group of Death’ alongside Spain, Italy, and Croatia, meaning they have a slim chance to qualify but plenty to impress. They must embrace the spirit of underdogs and aim to get results against the heavyweights in their group.
They only conceded four times throughout the qualification campaign, and that intense rearguard action could stand them in good stead during the tournament.
On the other hand, Spain is a three-time winner and reached the last four of Euro 2020, where they lost to eventual champions Italy on penalties. Having also been knocked out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on penalties, Luis de la Fuente was tasked with restoring their fortunes as head coach.
Their qualification campaign began with a 3–0 victory at home to Norway thanks to two goals from debutant Joselu, but Scotland stunned their counterparts with Scott McTominay’s brace at Hampden Park.
June brought the UEFA Nations League finals, during which La Roja defeated Italy in the semifinal, then got the better of Croatia to lift the trophy for the first time. They were understandably confident for the remaining qualifiers with 7-1 and 6-0 victories over Georgia and Cyprus, respectively.
Scotland were beaten 2-0 in the return leg before Spain cruised to the Euros as group winners with three consecutive wins. De la Fuente’s men are one of the tournament favorites, and they must show their credentials early, with the first two games coming against Croatia and Italy.
Hence, the match against Albania could be vital in determining if they progress to the knockout rounds in the top spot. They must not underestimate Sylvinho’s men, who will be desperate for an upset, but Spain should have enough quality in their squad to see a result.
The Iberians are gradually improving following an extensive squad rebuild in recent years, so they will be keen to show their ability to compete against the best in Germany.
Match tickets
This match will be played at the Dusseldorf Arena on Monday, 24 June 2024, with kick-off set for 7 PM UK time. UEFA allows fans to purchase match tickets through a public application window on their website, and so far, there have been applications for over 20 million copies.
Given that Albania is playing in just their second-ever major tournament, the players and fans will be hoping for the performance of their lives against Spain. There is also the likelihood that La Roja could be looking for a crucial result in this game, and Albania will be more than happy to spoil the party.
With all the stakes involved, supporters will be desperate to watch this game, but it will be sold out due to the sheer demand for match tickets on official channels. Hence, you can source your Albania vs Spain tickets on a ticket resale site.
Team news
At the time of writing, Arlind Ajeti is an injury doubt for Albania, while Marash Kumbulla suffered an ACL injury, but he might be able to make the squad for the Euros.
Spain has a comprehensive list of absentees for varying lengths of time, as Ansu Fati, Robert Sanchez, Jose Gaya, Inigo Martinez, Marcos Alonso, and Jesus Navas are all injured.
Barcelona midfielder Gavi is ruled out of the tournament after suffering an ACL rupture in his knee during their final qualification match against Georgia.
Line-ups
The Albania team has a lot of quality, and their togetherness must be harnessed when they face some tough opponents at Euro 2024.
The solidity shown by their defense is a good sign but they must do much more as a unit to score goals and get points off their much fancied Group B rivals.
Albania: Berisha; Hysaj, Ismajli, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Asllani, Ramadani; Bajrami, Asani, Seferi; Cikalleshi
The Spanish side is full of goalscoring talent, and it is pertinent that they strike a balance to go all the way to the Euros. While Rodri will have a vital role at the midfield base, captain Alvaro Morata must also be sharp upfront to convert goalscoring chances for his side.
Spain: Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Balde; Rodri, Merino, Pedri; Torres, Morata, Oyarzabal
Prediction
Spain will bring all the flair and attacking intent, while Albania will look to stifle them and create chances on the break.
Although the Red and Blacks pack a punch, Spain is far superior and should secure a positive result with potential rotations to their starting lineup.
Albania 0-2 Spain