Albania team UEFA EURO 2024
Composition of the Albanian national team
Goalkeepers: Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, Simon Simoni, Tomas Strakosha.
Defenders: Nasser Aliji, Arlind Ayeti, Ivan Balliou, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hisay, Adrian Ismajli, Marash Kumbulla, Enea Mihai, Mario Mitai.
Midfielders: Amir Abrashi, Christian Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gyasula, Kazim Lyachi, Ernest Muchi, Yulber Ramadani.
Forwards: Jasir Asani, Armando Broya, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, Taulant Seferi.
History of the Albanian football team
The Albanian national football team is proof of how determination and team spirit can bring a country onto the big football stage. Albania’s history at European Championships dates back to 2016, when it qualified for a major international tournament for the first time. This success was not only a sporting milestone, but also a source of national pride and a symbol of hope for the entire country.
At the 2016 European Championships in France, Albania competed in a strong group with opponents such as France, Switzerland and Romania. Despite the difficult starting position, the team, led by coach Gianni De Biasi, showed excellent fighting spirit and tactically confident play. The first game against Switzerland ended in a 0-1 defeat, but the team showed perseverance and passion.
The tournament culminated in the third group game when Albania scored a historic 1-0 win over Romania. Armando Sadiku’s goal was not only Albania’s first goal at the European Championships, but also their first victory, which sent the entire country into euphoria. Although the team didn’t make the playoffs, they left a lasting impression with their strong defense and decisive behavior.
Participation in Euro 2016 was a significant step forward for Albania. The enthusiasm of the Albanian fans, known as “Tifozat Kuk e Z”, was palpable in France and showed how much this success meant to the country. This experience made Albania a serious competitor in European football and laid the foundation for future ambitions.
Albania did not take part in the 2020 European Football Championship. After qualifying and appearing at the 2016 European Championship in France, the Albania national football team failed to qualify for the 2020 European Championship. The team missed the chance to assert themselves on the European stage again in the qualifying phase.
Expectations are high for the Albania national football team at Euro 2024 as the team looks to build on their previous successes and demonstrate the progress made since their historic performance at Euro 2016.