TIRANA, December 16 – The Albanian national football team qualified for the World Cup play-off stage for the first time in its history, fulfilling a long-held dream for both players and fans.

During the “Golden Ball 2025” gala, players received one of the evening’s top awards, the “World Cup Dream” trophy, in recognition of this historic achievement.

The 12 honored players included Berat Gjimshiti, Elseid Hysaj, Mario Mitaj, Naser Aliji, Kristjan Asllani, Myrto Uzuni, Rey Manaj, Klisman Çeka, Alen Sherri, Mario Dajsinani, Juljan Shehu, and Nazmi Gripshi.

Albanian Football Association President Armand Duka presented each player with a trophy to mark the accomplishment.

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