Albanian Football Federation President Armand Duka called the upcoming match against Andorra one of the most important games of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In a TV interview, Duka said the team must stay fully focused to win three points and keep hopes alive for a playoff spot.

“Every national team match matters. Each one gives three points, but this one is special. For me, it’s the most important game of the season because it keeps us in the race for the playoffs in March,” Duka said. “Of course, we’re watching England’s results too, but our focus must be on our job—winning these three points.”

He reminded that Albania lost a friendly to Andorra 2–0 years ago but won the official qualifiers in 2019 and 2021. “Those matches were never easy,” he added. “Andorra is better now, they fight hard. Even England struggled to beat them. We must take this match seriously. There’s no room for complacency—only full effort and responsibility.”

Duka explained that inconsistency remains a challenge. “That’s the difference between big teams and smaller ones like us. If we played at the same level every match, we wouldn’t be Albania fighting for playoffs—we’d be England topping the group.”

He praised Latvia’s strong play in earlier matches and warned that every opponent is difficult. “We’re here in Andorra to give our best and keep our World Cup dream alive,” he said. “The players know what a World Cup means—for themselves and for all the fans who support them everywhere.”

On fan support, Duka said Albanian supporters have gained real sporting culture. “They know there are no easy games. They come to the stadium to cheer, to push the team toward victory. I believe we’re a nation that truly feels and supports its national team.”

Finally, Duka noted that the focus remains on winning in Andorra. “We want to close this chapter here and not leave it for Tirana. Let the home match against England be a luxury game—for us and for them.”

/a.c/