The Albanian national team continues to dream in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, after securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Latvia at “Air Albania” Stadium on September 9. Kristjan Asllani’s decisive first-half penalty brought three valuable points, but it was what happened in the locker room afterward that truly set the tone for the road ahead.
Head coach Sylvinho, visibly emotional and full of passion, delivered a motivational speech that echoed the style of his former mentor, Pep Guardiola. Surrounded by his players, the Brazilian manager poured out gratitude and praise, applauding the team’s unity, sacrifice, and determination.
“This victory today is not just three points. This is heart, this is sacrifice, this is Albania!” Sylvinho told his players, urging them to carry the same fighting spirit into the decisive matches to come.
He singled out several standout performers, including the Kosovar duo Mirlind Daku and Arbër Hoxha, who brought relentless energy in attack, as well as defender Marash Kumbulla, who returned to the squad with strength and resilience. “Every duel, every ball, every challenge—you showed what it means to wear this shirt,” Sylvinho said of Kumbulla.
The coach emphasized that the win was just the beginning of Albania’s journey, reminding his squad that the most important challenge still lies ahead. On October 11, the national team travels to Leskovac for a high-stakes clash against Serbia—a match that could prove decisive in Group qualification.
With five games played, Albania sits on eight points, keeping hopes alive for a historic World Cup qualification.
As Sylvinho told his players, the key to success will be belief and unity: “If we fight together, if we suffer together, if we believe—no one can stop us. We are Albania. We are one.”