Albania will host Belarus at Air Albania Stadium on Saturday in its opening match of the Nations League. Kick-off is at 20:45. The game also marks Italian coach Rolando Maran’s first official match in charge of the national team.

Maran said he had seen commitment and motivation from the players during preparations. He also said he wanted Albania to compete for first place in the group. Captain Berat Gjimshiti shared that ambition and linked it to Albania’s goal of reaching the European Championship for a third time.

Maran will miss midfielder Qazim Laçi because of an injury. Adrion Pajaziti, Luis Hasa, Sabah Kerjota and goalkeeper Simon Simoni will also remain in the stands. Kristjan Asllani has recovered and returned to the group. Armando Broja, Nedim Bajrami and Jasir Asani are also absent. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Etrit Berisha has returned to the national team after a two-year absence.

Belarus comes to Tirana after six matches without a defeat. After Saturday’s game, Albania will face San Marino on September 29, Finland on October 3 and San Marino again on October 6.

/a.p./