The Albanian national football team has started preparations for its next 2026 World Cup qualifier against Serbia, scheduled for October 11 in Leskovac.

Speaking to the media, Albanian Football Association (FSHF) President Armand Duka underlined the importance of the match and expressed full confidence in the players and the coaching staff led by Silvinho.

“Every national team match brings maximum emotion, but when you’re close to achieving an objective or fighting for points, the emotions are stronger,” Duka said. “The match against Serbia is crucial because it gives us a real chance to reach the play-offs. Everything else is secondary — our focus is purely sporting.”

Duka added that a win would strengthen Albania’s position in the group. “A victory would make us more confident about reaching the play-offs, while a draw would still keep us in the race. We will go out for three points, even though they will be very hard to get. This is an open match, and I believe we have the ability to win.”

Regarding the decision to move the match from Belgrade to Leskovac, Duka said it brings neither a major advantage nor disadvantage. “What matters most is that the pitch is in great condition so our players can perform at their best,” he noted.

He also clarified that the result of this match will not determine Silvinho’s future as coach. “If we qualify, there’s no reason to talk about staff changes. If we don’t, discussions will happen — but this game alone won’t decide anything,” Duka explained.

Duka concluded on an optimistic note: “I believe in this group and in the team spirit we’ve built. We may not have extraordinary individual talent, but as a team, we’re stronger than Serbia. I have a really good feeling.”

/a.c/