Albania will face San Marino on Tuesday evening in their second Group C1 match of the UEFA Nations League. The Red and Blacks are clear favorites to win the game.

Head coach Rolando Maran appeared at the pre-match press conference alongside captain Berat Djimshiti. He stressed the importance of taking San Marino seriously and maintaining maximum concentration throughout the match.

Asked how Albania could settle the game as quickly as possible, Maran said the team must approach the match seriously and remain fully focused.

“Albania must play a serious game with maximum concentration. These matches help build the team’s mentality. We need particular patience. We must also show great respect for San Marino and take the necessary measures for every situation that may arise,” Maran said.

On whether Albania should rely on vertical passes or possession, the coach said the team must adapt to the circumstances of the game.

“The important thing is to play the best match possible and read the situations that develop during the game. We will make the most appropriate choices. Depending on the circumstances, we can also use vertical passes,” he said.

Maran also explained what he wants to see from Albania against San Marino as the team continues to adopt his ideas.

“As I said earlier, mentality is important when building a team. Regardless of the opponent, we must go onto the pitch and do what we need to do. We should not be satisfied with only certain elements. It is important to create the right conditions and take everything seriously. In this case, the team’s growth is also important,” Maran said.

Regarding the starting lineup, Maran said he already has an idea of the players who could start, but he will make his final decisions closer to kick-off.

“I practically have an idea of who could be in the starting eleven. We still have around 24 hours before the match. I am convinced that everyone will go onto the pitch to play the best game possible. Even the players do not know the lineup yet. It would be disrespectful to them if the media found out beforehand. I will wait these final hours before making the last assessments, especially regarding the physical aspect,” he said.

Maran also highlighted the challenge of playing four consecutive matches for the first time. He said he considered both the physical condition and characteristics of the players and opponents when selecting the squad.

“There could be changes, but not in the team’s overall identity. What matters is that we continue to improve. I am convinced that whoever plays will be motivated to give their best. All 28 players in the squad are fully committed. There could be some changes depending on the circumstances, but not in the team’s overall approach,” Maran said.

On possession, he explained that circulating the ball could help Albania create spaces against a San Marino side expected to defend deep.

“When you circulate the ball, especially against a team that tends to sit back, you have opportunities to move the opposition’s defense and create spaces. This also helps you avoid mistakes that could lead to a difficult result,” he said.

Asked which family members would attend the match, Maran said he had invited most of them to Tirana.

“I invited most of them to Tirana. There may be several people, but the number is not important. We are focused on this match. The fact that we will also have Albanian supporters makes us feel even more responsible. We want to make them proud and give our very best,” Maran said.

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