History of the Albania national football team

Although it never played any matches, the Albania national football team existed before the Albanian Football Association (FSHF) was created in 1930. This is evinced by the registration of the Albanian team in the 1929–31 Balkan Cup a year before the creation of the FSHF.{{cite web|url=http://www.zemrashqiptare.net/news/id-2781/Giovanni_Armillotta:_Kryeziu,_Lushta,_Bori%C3%A7i_e_Llambi.html|title=Zemra Shqiptare|access-date=19 June 2015}} The FSHF was founded on 6 June 1930, and two years later, Albania joined FIFA. It was not until 1946, however, that Albania hosted its first international match against Yugoslavia. In 1954, Albania was one of the founding members of UEFA.

File:2007 stamps of Albania-National Team 1946.jpg

{{Main|1946 Balkan Cup}}

The early years saw a notably successful Balkan Cup run in 1946. Albania won their group over favourites Yugoslavia by earning a better goal difference. After defeating Bulgaria 3–1 in the semifinal, Albania won the tournament by defeating Romania 1–0 in the final. Albania initially wasn't expected to participate in the tournament, but the withdrawal of Greece offered Albania a chance to join in the re-established post-war cup.{{cite book|author=Besnik Dizdari|title=Ballkaniada 1946: Shqipëria – kampione e Ballkanit ne startin e "Luftës së ftohtë" në Evropë|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DadPygAACAAJ|year=2007|publisher=Rozafat|isbn=978-99943-979-0-7|pages=2–10}}

{{Main|1964 European Nations' Cup qualifying}}

Albania did not participate in qualifiers for the 1960 European Nations' Cup. Four years later, Albania competed in 1964 European Nations' Cup qualification for the first time, earning forfeit victories against Greece in the opening ties, earning them a place in the Round of 16.{{cite web|url=http://www.ekskluzive.al/euro-1964-greqia-refuzoi-nga-ligji-i-luftes-u-kualifikua-shqiperia/|title="Euro 1964" / Greqia refuzoi nga "ligji i luftës", u kualifikua Shqipëria|trans-title=“Euro 1964” / Greece refused due to “war law”, Albania qualified|publisher=Ekskluzive.al|language=sq|date=30 October 2018|access-date=15 October 2019}} Albania drew Denmark in the next round, losing 4–0 in the first leg and winning the second leg 1–0 thanks to an early goal from Panajot Pano despite that, ending their cup run with a 4–1 aggregate defeat.{{Cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/1963-dy-fitore-3-0-greqise-dhe-shqiperia-ne-16-she-te-europes/|title=1963: Dy fitore 3–0 Greqisë dhe Shqipëria në 16-she të Europës!|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=6 September 2014|access-date=16 October 2019}} At the end of the tournament Albania ranked 9th in Europe for the first and only time in its history. Also Winning three Matches in their debut campaign.{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/shqiperia-ne-fazen-finale-nuk-eshte-hera-e-pare/|title=Shqipëria në fazën finale? Nuk është hera e parë!|trans-title=Albania in finale phase, its not the first time|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=14 October 2015|access-date=15 October 2019}}{{cite web|last1=UEFA|title=Victories of Albania until Euro2016 qualifiers|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/teams/2--albania/|access-date=17 October 2015}}{{cite news|last1=Dizdari|first1=Besnik|title=Dr. Armillotta ka të drejtë|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/dr-armillotta-ka-te-drejte/|access-date=17 October 2015|publisher=Panorama-Sport|date=15 October 2015}}

Albania took part in the qualifiers for the 1966 World Cup in England, with Northern Ireland, Netherlands and Switzerland drawn in their group. Albania's only point in the group came from a 1–1 home draw to Northern Ireland in Tirana, which denied Northern Ireland a place in the Finals.

In UEFA Euro 1968 qualification, Albania had a 0–0 home draw with West Germany that denied the Germans participation in the final tournament.{{cite web|url=https://opinion.al/euro-1968-kur-kombetarja-e-shqiperise-eliminonte-gjermanine/|title=Euro 1968/ Kur Kombëtarja e Shqipërisë eliminonte Gjermaninë|trans-title=Euro 1968/ When Albania national team eliminated Germany|publisher=Opinion.al|language=sq|date=13 May 2016|access-date=15 October 2019}}{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/1967-risite-e-te-vertetave-te-shqiperia-gjermania-0-0/|title=1967: Risitë e të vërtetave të Shqipëria-Gjermania 0-0…|trans-title=1967: The innovations of the truths of Albania-Germany 0-0…|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=19 December 2017|access-date=15 October 2019}}

{{Main|Football at the 1972 Summer Olympics – Men's European Qualifiers}}

Albania participated in Olympic qualifying for the first time in 1964. The Albanians faced Bulgaria in the opening round, losing both matches 1–0 and failing to qualify for the next round.{{cite web | url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/besnik-dizdari-e-verteta-e-pjesemarrjes-se-shqiperise-ne-lojerat-olimpike/ | title=Besnik Dizdari: E vërteta e pjesëmarrjes së Shqipërisë në Lojërat Olimpike }} It wasn't until the 1972 Summer Olympics held in Munich that Albania made another attempt to qualify. Facing Romania in the opening round, they lost both legs 2–1, despite goals from Medin Zhega and Panajot Pano, respectively.{{cite web | url=https://www.rsssf.org/tableso/ol1972q.html | title=Games of the XX. Olympiad - Football Qualifying Tournament }}

{{Main|1982 FIFA World Cup qualification (UEFA)#UEFA Group 1|UEFA Euro 1984 qualifying Group 6|1986 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 1}}

After six years of virtually no international matches, Albania managed to return to international football, participating in the 1982 FIFA World Cup qualification. In Group 1, Albania managed to end above last place, which Finland got instead. They only win came in September 1980 against Finland thanks to the goals of Sefedin Braho and Millan Baçi.

In the 1984 European Championship qualifiers, Albania finished in last place in their group of five teams. In 8 matches, Albania got 2 points, with 2 draws, 6 losses, and no wins. On the other hand, Albania had some impressive results against bigger teams. They lost 0–1 away to Turkey with the goal being scored in the 86th minute. In the next two games, Albania tied Northern Ireland to a scoreless draw and lost 1–2 to Germany, both at home. In the last three matches, Albania tied Turkey in the Qemal Stafa Stadium and lost 2–1 to Austria in Tirana. The last game of the competition was an away game to Germany. After 22 minutes, Albania went ahead 0–1 with a goal by Genc Tomorri. However, they were tied one minute later, and after Genc Tomorri was sent off by the referee after a simulation of Rudi Völler, Albania had to play for 60 minutes with one man down. Eventually Albania lost 2–1 with the last goal being scored in the 79th minute.[http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/ndeshjet-e-pashlyeshme-qe-cuan-te-drama-e-trier-it/ Ndeshjet e pashlyeshme që çuan te "Drama e Trier-it"…] Panorama Sport

In the 1986 FIFA World Cup qualification Albania would face in this qualification Belgium, Poland and their rivals Greece. In the first match they faced Belgium in Brussels. The Albanians lost with 3-1 despite the equalizer from Bedri Omuri in the 71st minute. Albania would face away from home against Poland in the Stadion Stali Mielec. They drew the result through goals from Bedri Omuri and even the leading goal from Agustin Kola with 2-1 but at the end Poland scored again. Albania missing out on their first win, in this qualification. After that Albania famously beat Belgium at home with 2–0 in the Qemal Stafa Stadium. The goals were scored by Mirel Josa and Arben Minga securing Albania their first and only win in this qualification.{{cite web |url=http://sportekspres.com/cikli-dossier-mirel-josa-makthi-i-te-huajve/ |title=Cikli Dossier/ Mirel Josa, "makthi i të huajve" |website=sportekspres.com |access-date=22 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324172903/http://sportekspres.com/cikli-dossier-mirel-josa-makthi-i-te-huajve/ |archive-date=24 March 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web | url=http://www.giovanniarmillotta.it/albania/calcio/football.html | title=Albanian Football: Chronological Photo Gallery and Soccer Results in Europe | access-date=6 February 2022 | archive-date=6 February 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206184555/http://www.giovanniarmillotta.it/albania/calcio/football.html | url-status=dead }} As Albania loss their next two games against Greece away with 2-0 and against Poland at home close with 0–1. Missing out close to qualify for the 1986 FIFA World Cup. In their last match they faced Greece at home in Tirana. They go in front by a goal from Bedri Omuri but they couldn't hold on as Greece equalized the result in the 54th minute. At the end playing a 1–1 draw.{{cite web | url=http://www.allworldcup.narod.ru/1986/PROTOCOL/QUALIF/UEFA/G1/ALBVSGRE.HTM | title=World Cup 1986 }} Despite finishing their campaign with four points in the third place. Albania came close to qualify as they nearly beat every opponent in this Group. It was their most successful FIFA World Cup qualification in the history of Albania.

{{Main|UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying Group 7|1998 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 9|UEFA Euro 2000 qualifying Group 2}}

Albania managed to get impressive results against Germany during this campaign with Germany winning both matches only by 2–1 and the winner coming only in the last minutes. Albania finished in last place with 2 wins, 2 draws and 6 losses due to having worse head-to-head results against Wales. However, Albania beat another country (Moldova) away in an international qualifying tournament for the first time.

In the 1998 World Cup, Albania was drawn in a 6-team group which included Germany, Portugal, Ukraine, Northern Ireland and Armenia, Albania finished last with 4 points, but showed some respective results against the bigger teams. Their two matches with Germany saw them lose 2–3 at neutral ground and 3–4 in Hannover, taking the lead in both games. Albania got a 1–0 win against Northern Ireland and a 1–1 tie against Armenia.

In a relatively easy group, Albania only won once at home against Georgia. However, they memorably drew Greece 0–0 at home, Norway 2–2 and Latvia 0–0 (both away). Albania also drew Latvia 3–3 at home. All the other matches were narrowly lost.

{{Main|2002 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 9|UEFA Euro 2004 qualifying Group 10|2006 FIFA World Cup qualification - UEFA Group 2}}

File:Besnik Hasi2016.jpg (pictured here in 2016), was one of the first Kosovo Albanians to play for the national team. He is considered by Albanian media as the man who "united" Kosovo and Albania.{{cite web|last=Shordi|first=Altin|url=http://sportekspres.com/contenti.aspx?idjadok=13532&id=542|title=Komiteti jep Ok; Hasi do kontratë afatgjatë dhe një ndihmës belg!|publisher=Sport Ekspres|date=18 October 2011|access-date=6 January 2012|language=sq|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425001842/http://sportekspres.com/contenti.aspx?idjadok=13532&id=542|archive-date=25 April 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gazetatema.net/2017/07/20/hasi-jam-nga-kosova-e-shqiperise-gazetari-grek-kosova-e-serbise/|title=Besnik Hasi: Jam nga Kosova e Shqipërisë. Gazetari grek: Kosova është e Serbisë|trans-title=Besnik Hasi: I'm from Kosovo of Albania. Greek journalist: Kosovo is of Serbia|publisher=Anadolu Agency|author=Can Erözden|date=12 October 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}}]]

After a loss to Finland, Albania won over Greece 2–0 with an own goal and a late goal of Ervin Fakaj. However, after that win, another 6 losses followed for Albania, which brought the Albanian Football Federation to think about hiring a foreign coach, 33 years after the last foreign coach, Luznikov, had led Albania in a Moscow tournament in 1959.

After a poor start in which Albania would draw at home against Switzerland with 1-1 by a goal from Edvin Murati but lose in the next match away against Russia with 4-1 despite an earlier equalizer scored by Klodian Duro Albania sacked his manager Giuseppe Dossena{{cite web | url=https://newsport.al/speciale-giussepe-dossena-rrugetimi-i-dhimbshem-te-shqiperia-qe-nuk-rezultoi-kurre-i-kote/ | title=SPECIALE/ Giussepe DOSSENA, rrugëtimi i dhimbshëm te SHQIPËRIA, që nuk rezultoi kurrë i kotë | date=16 November 2018 }} to replace him with German Hans-Peter Briegel for the following match {{cite web | url=https://tvklan.al/hans-peter-briegel-do-te-jete-trajneri-i-kombetares-shqiptare-16-dhjetor-2002/ | title=Hans-Peter Briegel do të jetë trajneri i kombëtares shqiptare - (16 Dhjetor 2002) | date=16 December 2002 }} against Russia in the Loro Boriçi Stadium in Shkodër. In which the Albanians won deservedly with 3-1 through goals from Altin Rraklli, Altin Lala and Igli Tare to secure Hans-Peter Briegel in his debut match, as a manager his maiden win for Albania.{{cite web | url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/news/0254-0d7b3a20b7dd-0f66848ad46a-1000--flying-start-for-briegel/ | title=Flying start for Briegel | date=29 March 2003 }}{{cite web | url=https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3nxpChYQjAA | title=2003 (March 29) Albania 3-Russia 1 (EC Qualifier).avi - YouTube | website=YouTube | date=30 October 2011 }} He led Albania to an undefeated run at home matches by drawing against Republic of Ireland 0–0 and beating in the last match Georgia 3–1 by goals from Besnik Hasi, Igli Tare and striker Alban Bushi. Despite the good results, Albania finished the group in the penultimate spot with eight points. Away Albania couldn't score any points, but managed to score 4 goals. Missing close out to the Playoffs stage by six points.

Two months after Greece beat Portugal to win the European Championship, Albania defeated Greece 2–1 at home by two quick goals from Edvin Murati and Adrian Aliaj, denting the Greeks' possibility to qualify. As the Albanians leading for the table for the first time in a qualification after this match.{{cite web | url=https://www.botasot.info/futboll-sporti/1661269/17-vjet-nga-fitorja-historike-e-shqiperise-kunder-greqise/ | title=17 vjet nga fitorja historike e Shqipërisë kundër Greqisë }}{{cite web | url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/fotovideo-4-shtator-2004-kur-shqiperia-nenshtronte-greqine-kampione-europe/ | title=FOTO+VIDEO/ 4 shtator 2004, kur Shqipëria nënshtronte Greqinë kampione Europe }} Albania went on to disappoint by losing to Georgia away and Denmark at home, before returning to winning ways by beating Kazakhstan 0–1 with a goal from Alban Bushi. Then, Albania played Ukraine, Turkey, and Greece, losing all three matches. Later Albania beat Georgia 3–2 by two goals from Igli Tare and one from Ervin Skela as well as beating Kazakhstan with 2–1 by goals from Florian Myrtaj and striker Erjon Bogdani. The last positive result for Albania in this qualification would be a 2–2 away draw with Ukraine where Bogdani scoring two surprising goals. At the end, Albania got 13 points, and four wins in their best result then. They surpassed for the first time in the history two nation's in the qualifying standings.{{Cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/kur-brigel-mposhtte-trajneret-e-meparshem-te-shqiperise%e2%80%a6/|title=Kur Brigel mposhtte trajnerët e mëparshëm të Shqipërisë…|website=www.panorama.com.al|accessdate=25 March 2023}}

{{Main|UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying Group G|2010 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 1}}

In the matches for the 2008 European qualifiers campaign, Albania have managed very good results as well as good team play in some matches compared to previous times. They started with a 2–2 away draw to Belarus, two wins against Luxembourg home and away (2–0, 3–0) and a 0–0 draw away to Bulgaria. They had two good matches against the Netherlands in both legs, although controversial refereeing [https://web.archive.org/web/20090213093412/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=197400&cc=5739 Disallowed Albanian goal], versus the Netherlands, Euro 2008 qualifier: ESPNsoccernet website. Retrieved on 14 September 2007.[http://www.albaniasoccer.com/en/index.php?id=613 Albanian Football Federation] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071007180209/http://www.albaniasoccer.com/en/index.php?id=613 |date=2007-10-07 }}, files official complaint with UEFA regarding Netherlands game: Albania soccer website. Retrieved on 16 September 2007. caused the matches to end up in two losses (2–1, 0–1). Other setbacks included a 0–0 draw against Slovenia and a 0–2 loss to Romania, both at home. Albania's hopes of qualifying mathematically ended when they failed to win over Slovenia away and managed another 0–0 draw. In the penultimate match at home against Bulgaria, Albania played wonderfully, but ended up in a very unlucky draw. After going ahead, they conceded in the dying minutes and later missed a penalty. In the last match at home, Albania was hugely disappointing, losing 2–4 against Belarus. Contrary to the popular belief that this would be the easiest match during the campaign, Albania not only missed a chance to break the points-record of all competitions but also produced a very lethargic performance in a rainy night. Albania's Euro campaign ended with a disastrous 6–1 away loss to Romania, which eventually resulted in the resignation of the coach Otto Barić and his assistant.{{cite web|url=http://www.arkivalajmeve.com/Baric-jep-doreheqjen-ne-ndeshjen-e-100-te.89076/|title=Bariç jep dorëheqjen në ndeshjen e 100-të|trans-title=Barić resign in the 100th match|publisher=Arkiva Shqiptare e Lajmeve|language=sq|date=21 November 2007|access-date=16 October 2019}}{{cite web|url=http://www.arkivalajmeve.com/Panorama-Sport-Kombetarja-i-ben-puc-Baric-jep-doreheqjen.89086/|title=Panorama Sport: Kombëtarja i bën puç, Bariç jep dorëheqjen|publisher=Arkiva Shqiptare e Lajmeve|language=sq|author=Jetmir Halilaj|date=22 November 2007|access-date=16 October 2019|archive-date=24 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924224656/http://www.arkivalajmeve.com/Panorama-Sport-Kombetarja-i-ben-puc-Baric-jep-doreheqjen.89086/|url-status=dead}}

In December 2007, Football Association of Albania's president, Armand Duka, announced Arie Haan would replace Croatian-Austrian Otto Barić as Albania's head coach.{{cite web|url=http://www.arkivalajmeve.com/Ari-Han-eshte-trajneri-i-ri.3063/|title=Ari Han eshte trajneri i ri|trans-title=Arie Haan is the new coach|publisher=Arkiva Shqiptare e Lajmeve|work=Koha Jonë|author=Jeton Selimi|date=25 December 2007|access-date=15 October 2019|archive-date=15 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015201254/http://www.arkivalajmeve.com/Ari-Han-eshte-trajneri-i-ri.3063/|url-status=dead}} Haan signed a two-year contract on 4 January 2008. On 14 March 2008, Albania was suspended from international football (FIFA and UEFA), due to heavy political interference in the Football Association. The suspension lasted 46 days.{{Cite web|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2008/SPORT/football/04/29/fifa.albania.ap/index.html|title=Albania suspension lifted by FIFA|accessdate=25 March 2023}}{{dead link|date=May 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}{{Cite web|url=http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5jqvqNymxClrCYxj_JwtH29T7OgTA|title=FIFA says its emergency committee has decided to lift suspension of Albania|accessdate=25 March 2023}}{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}{{Cite web|url=http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/04/29/sports/EU-SPT-SOC-FIFA-Albania.php|title=FIFA lifts suspension of Albania over alleged interference|accessdate=25 March 2023}}

With Haan as coach Albania started 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification with a 0–0 draw against Sweden at home. Four days later, the Albanians defeated Malta 3–0 with goals from Erjon Bogdani, Armend Dallku and Klodian Duro. On 11 October 2008, Albania lost 2–0 to Hungary in Budapest and then surprisingly drew 0–0 with Portugal in Braga. On 11 February 2009, Albania drew with Malta in Ta'Qali 0–0. Albania then lost 1–0 to Hungary at home on 28 March 2009 and 3–0 to Denmark in Copenhagen on 1 April 2009. In the home match against Portugal, Hugo Almeida scored early for Portugal, before Albania equalised with a goal from Erjon Bogdani. However, with just a few seconds left in the game, Bruno Alves scored the winner for Portugal, eliminating Albania. At the end of the campaign, Albania drew 1–1 against Denmark and lost 4–1 to Sweden. Haan was replaced by Croatian coach Josip Kuže in May 2009.{{cite web|url=http://www.tvkoha.tv/1300/josip-kuzhe-trajner-i-shqiperise.html |title=Televizioni Koha - JOSIP KUZHE TRAJNER I SHQIPËRISË - Sport |author=Televizioni Koha |access-date=19 June 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150619153814/http://www.tvkoha.tv/1300/josip-kuzhe-trajner-i-shqiperise.html |archive-date=19 June 2015 }}

{{Main|2014 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group E}}

Josip Kuže parted ways with Albania three years and a half after he started the job, and in December 2011, Italian coach Gianni De Biasi replaced him.{{cite news|url=https://www.eurosport.com/football/serie-a/2011-2012/de-biasi-albania-boss_sto3066091/story.shtml|title=De Biasi Albania boss|publisher=Eurosport.com|agency=Reuters|date=14 December 2011|access-date=19 October 2019}} Albania started the qualifiers well, notably defeating Cyprus with 3-1 by goals from Armando Sadiku, Edgar Çani and Erjon Bogdani as well as beating Slovenia at home with 1-0 by a goal from Odise Roshi.{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/albania-vs-cyprus/253453|title=Albania 3–1 Cyprus|publisher=Eurosport.com|date=7 September 2012|access-date=19 October 2019}} which was followed by an unprecedent away win at Norway in Oslo after a stunning goal from Hamdi Salihi.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/norvegji-shqiperi-luhet-ne-ulleval-te-oslos/|title=Shqipëria mposht Norvegjinë 0-1, shiko golin|trans-title=Albania defeats Norway 0-1, watch the goal|publisher=Gazeta Panorama|language=sq|date=22 March 2013|access-date=19 October 2019}}{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/kryeveper-e-kuqezinjve-shqiperia-ngrin-vikinget/|title=Kryevepër e kuqezinjve, Shqipëria ngrin vikingët|trans-title=Masterpiece of red and blacks, Albania freezes the vikings|publisher=Gazeta Panorama|language=sq|date=23 March 2013|access-date=19 October 2019}} Albania would also draw against Norway at home despite leading the match with a goal from Valdet Rama, this match ending in a 1–1 draw.{{cite web | url=https://shqiptarja.com/lajm/shqiperi-norvegji-1-1-br-barazim-ne-minuten-39-87 | title=Shqipëri-Norvegji: 1-1barazim në minutën '87 - Shqiptarja }} The team was at one point 2nd with 6 matches played and 4 to spare, but failed to be successful in the last four, losing away in Slovenia and Iceland,{{cite news|url=https://www.lajmeshqip.com/sporti/shqiperia-e-pafat-fiton-sllovenia|title=Shqipëria e pafat. Fiton Sllovenia|trans-title=Albania unlucky. Slovenia wins|publisher=Lajme Shqip|language=sq|date=6 September 2013|access-date=19 October 2019}}{{cite news|url=https://shqiptarja.com/lajm/brazil-2014-islande-shqiperia-2-1-br-shuhen-shpresat-per-kualifikim|title=Brazil 2014, Islandë-Shqipëria 2-1, shuhen shpresat për kualifikim|trans-title=Brazil 2014, Iceland 2–1 Albania, the hopes for qualification are vanished|publisher=Shqiptarja.com|language=sq|date=10 September 2013|access-date=19 October 2019}} as well at home against Switzerland,{{cite news|url=http://prizrenpress.com/sport/shqiperia-mposhtet-ne-shtepi-kualifikohet-zvicra/|title=Shqipëria mposhtet në shtëpi, kualifikohet Zvicra|trans-title=Albania defeated at home, Switzerland qualifies|publisher=Prizren Press|language=sq|date=12 October 2013|access-date=19 October 2019|archive-date=19 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019140345/http://prizrenpress.com/sport/shqiperia-mposhtet-ne-shtepi-kualifikohet-zvicra/|url-status=dead}} and drawing in Cyprus.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/revolucioni-i-kombetares-atdhetaria-dhe-pseudoatdhetaria/|title="Revolucioni" i Kombëtares, atdhetaria dhe "pseudoatdhetaria"|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|author=Besnik Dizdari|access-date=4 April 2016|date=4 April 2015}} With De Biasi, the Albania national team reached an unprecedented high number of players, who although are ethnically Albanian, were not born in Albania, but either in Kosovo, or outside of Kosovo, while hailing from Kosovo Albania parents. In 2011–13, 14 Albanians of Kosovo origin were either part of the start-up team, or had received recent call-ups.{{cite news|url=http://www.mesazhi.com/artikuj/kombetarja-e-kosoves-brenda-kombetares-se-shqiperise-|title=Kombëtarja e Kosovës brenda Kombëtares së Shqipërisë|trans-title=Kosovo national team inside Albania national team|publisher=Mesazhi|language=sq|date=8 August 2013|access-date=3 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004213921/http://www.mesazhi.com/artikuj/kombetarja-e-kosoves-brenda-kombetares-se-shqiperise-|archive-date=2013-10-04|url-status=dead}}

{{main|UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying Group I|UEFA Euro 2016 Group A}}

File:Lorik cana crop.jpg is the most capped player in the history of the national team with 93 caps; he overtook Altin Lala in 2014 and is seen by many as the symbol of Albanians and the national team.{{cite web|url=https://sport.alpenews.al/2018/07/kapiteni-legjendar-lorik-cana-njeriu-simbol-dhe-frymzimi-i-cdo-shqiptari/|title=KAPITENI LEGJENDAR/ LORIK CANA, njeriu simbol dhe frymëzimi i çdo shqiptari|trans-title=Legendary captain/ Lorik Cana, the symbol man and inspiration of every Albanian|website=sport.alpenews.al|language=sq|date=27 July 2018|access-date=16 October 2019}}{{cite web|url=http://rtv21.tv/lorik-cana-karriera-prej-nje-legjende/|title=Lorik Cana – Karriera prej një legjende!|trans-title=Lorik Cana – A career of a legend!|publisher=RTV21.tv|language=sq|author=Durim Nitaj|date=9 January 2018|access-date=16 October 2019}}]]

The qualifying draw took place on 23 February 2014. Albania was drawn in Group I along with Portugal, Denmark, Serbia, and Armenia. Qualifying matches started in September 2014. Albania started the qualifiers with a historic result as they beat group favourites Portugal 1–0 away thanks to a goal from Bekim Balaj.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/239815/|title="Bekim" kuqezi në Aveiro, Shqipëria shokon Portugalinë|trans-title=Red&black "blessing" in Aveiro, Albania shocks Portugal|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=7 September 2014|access-date=7 September 2014}} In the second match against Denmark at the newly renovated Elbasan Arena, Albania was on lead until the 82nd minute where Lasse Vibe equalized, with the match ending 1–1. In the next game against Serbia at Partizan Stadium, the match was abandoned in 42nd minute after several on and off the field incidents. Despite the violence by Serbia's hooligans against Albania at Partizan Stadium, Serbia was awarded the 3–0 victory after the decision by UEFA.{{cite news| url=https://www.uefa.com/european-qualifiers/news/0253-0d7f84151079-67a6a36080e3-1000--disciplinary-decision-on-serbia-albania-match/ | title=Disciplinary decision on Serbia-Albania match | work=UEFA | date=24 October 2014 | access-date=27 October 2014}} The decision was appealed by both Serbia and Albania,{{cite news|last1=AFP|title=Albania to appeal UEFA punishment over Serbia|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-albania-to-appeal-uefa-punishment-over-serbia-fracas-2014-10|access-date=26 October 2014|publisher=Business Insider|date=24 October 2014|archive-date=29 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629155033/http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-albania-to-appeal-uefa-punishment-over-serbia-fracas-2014-10|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/755/europe/2014/10/24/5448671/serbia-to-appeal-uefa-decision|title=Serbia to appeal UEFA decision|publisher=Goal.com|date=24 October 2014}} but the decision was upheld by UEFA.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/european-qualifiers/news/0253-0d7f87c2874a-ae147fbcc546-1000--decisions-upheld-for-serbia-albania-match/|title=Decisions upheld for Serbia-Albania match|publisher=UEFA|date=2 December 2014}} Both associations then filed further appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport,{{cite web|title=The football associations of Albania and Serbia file appeals at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)|url=http://www.tas-cas.org/fileadmin/user_upload/Media_Release_3874_3875__2_.pdf|website=tas-cas.org|publisher=Court of Arbitration for Sport|access-date=8 January 2015}} and on 10 July 2015 the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected the appeal filed by the Serbian FA, and upholds in part the appeal filed by the Albanian FA, meaning the match is deemed to have been forfeited by Serbia with 0–3 and they are still deducted three points.{{cite web |url=http://www.tas-cas.org/en/general-information/news-detail/article/football-the-cas-rejects-the-appeal-filed-by-the-serbian-fa-upholds-in-part-the-appeal-filed-by-the-albanian-fa-the-match-serbia-albania-is-deemed-to-have-been-forfeited-by-serbia-0-3.html |title=FOOTBALL: The CAS rejects the appeal filed by the Serbian FA, upholds in part the appeal filed by the Albanian FA: the match Serbia-Albania is deemed to have been forfeited by Serbia (0-3) |publisher=Tribunal Arbitral du Sport / Court of Arbitration for Sport |date=10 July 2015 |access-date=10 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150711073233/http://www.tas-cas.org/en/general-information/news-detail/article/football-the-cas-rejects-the-appeal-filed-by-the-serbian-fa-upholds-in-part-the-appeal-filed-by-the-albanian-fa-the-match-serbia-albania-is-deemed-to-have-been-forfeited-by-serbia-0-3.html |archive-date=11 July 2015 |url-status=dead }}

In the fourth match against Armenia at home, Albania were behind from the 4th minute after an own goal from Mërgim Mavraj, but Mavraj equalized in the 77th minute with a powerful header. Four minutes later Shkëlzen Gashi scored the winner, putting Albania in the 2nd position along with Denmark with 10 points.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/european-qualifiers/news/0253-0d7ff0cb1329-b59407439762-1000--albania-head-off-armenia-threat/|title=Albania head off Armenia threat|publisher=UEFA|date=29 March 2015|access-date=5 September 2015}} It was the first time that Albania ended the first part of the qualifiers in the second spot. Albania made history again by beating one-time world champions and UEFA Euro 2016 hosts France at the Elbasan Arena in the "Group I" friendly match.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/news/0253-0d8002c03378-09e8ae19c995-1000--kace-free-kick-gives-albania-win-against-france/|title=Kaçe free-kick gives Albania win against France|publisher=UEFA|date=13 June 2015|access-date=5 September 2015}} After a draw against Denmark, Albania clinched at least a play-off place. Despite losing to Portugal and Serbia, Albania defeated Armenia 3–0 in Yerevan and qualified for UEFA Euro 2016,{{cite news |title=Albania win in Armenia to confirm qualification for first major tournament |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/11/armenia-albania-euro-2016-qualifier-match-report |access-date=17 September 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=11 October 2015}} its first appearance at a major men's football tournament after 50 years.{{cite web |last1=Smith |first1=Sam |title=Albania 0-1 Switzerland: Early Schar goal edges out ten-man Albania |url=https://www.vavel.com/en/international-football/2016/06/10/657587.html |website=vavel.com |access-date=17 September 2020 |date=10 June 2016}} For this achievement the entire team was bestowed the Honor of Nation Order by Albania's President Bujar Nishani.{{cite web|url=http://president.al/old/presidenti-nishani-vlereson-arritjen-historike-te-kombetares-shqiptare-te-futbollit/|title=Presidenti Nishani vlerëson arritjen historike të Kombëtares Shqiptare të Futbollit|trans-title=President Nishani praises the historic achievement of the Albanian National Football Team|publisher=President.al|language=sq|date=12 October 2015|access-date=16 October 2019}} In addition to the qualification, Albania achieved a world record in terms of not conceding any away goals during the tournament, while scoring seven away goals.{{Cite web|url=http://www.dawn.com/news/1225716|title = Euro 2016 team-by-team guide|date = 11 December 2015}}{{citation needed|reason=Give source|date=November 2015}}

After the Serbia–Albania match, the national team of Albania was given awards of honor and city recognition by the cities of Tirana, Vlore, Kamëz, and Bajram Curri for protecting the national symbols.{{cite news|last1=Gazeta Tema|title=Folklorizmi shkon deri ne ekstrem|url=http://www.gazetatema.net/web/2014/10/23/folklorizmi-shkon-ne-ekstrem-vlora-kamza-dhe-bajram-curri-shpallin-qytetar-nderi-armando-dukes-e-canes/|access-date=25 October 2014|date=23 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025071048/http://www.gazetatema.net/web/2014/10/23/folklorizmi-shkon-ne-ekstrem-vlora-kamza-dhe-bajram-curri-shpallin-qytetar-nderi-armando-dukes-e-canes/|archive-date=2014-10-25|url-status=dead}}

Albania lost 0–1 to Switzerland and 0–2 to hosts France. While they beat Romania 1–0 (their first win against Romania since 1947), the team finished last among the third-placed teams and didn't progress beyond the group stage.{{cite news|url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/albania-out-euro-2016-after-portugal-draw-hungary|title=Albania out of Euro 2016 after Portugal draw with Hungary|publisher=Fourfourtwo.com|date=22 June 2016|access-date=9 October 2016}}

{{Main|2018 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group G}}

Despite the UEFA European Championship's almost successful debut, Albania suffered massive setback. In 2018 World Cup qualification, Albania had been thrown into a tough group composing Spain and Italy. Albania, despite its passionate play, failed to reach the World Cup, falling to both Italy and Spain as well as a shocking 0–3 loss to Israel at home.{{cite web|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-beats-albania-3-0-in-world-cup-match-played-under-terror-threat/|title=Israel beats Albania 3-0 in World Cup match played under terror threat|publisher=Times of Israel|date=13 November 2016|access-date=16 October 2019}} During this era, their successful manager, Gianni De Biasi, resigned and Christian Panucci, another Italian, replaced him as coach of Albania.{{cite web|url=https://en.as.com/en/2017/07/19/football/1500470638_776017.html|title=Panucci named Albania coach|publisher=Diario AS|date=19 July 2017|access-date=16 October 2019|archive-date=17 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417001106/https://en.as.com/en/2017/07/19/football/1500470638_776017.html|url-status=dead}} The situation however did not improve significantly. Albania played poorly in the 2018–19 UEFA Nations League, winning only to Israel 1–0 and lost the remaining three, especially the devastating 0–4 defeat to Scotland at home.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46113905|title=Albania 0–4 Scotland|publisher=BBC Sport|first1=Andrew|last1=Southwick|date=17 November 2018|access-date=16 October 2019}} Panucci would be sacked after a 0–2 defeat to Turkey in the opening campaign for the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying.{{cite web|url=https://www.football-italia.net/136110/official-albania-sack-panucci|title=Official: Albania sack Panucci|publisher=Football Italia|date=23 March 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} Another Italian, Edoardo Reja, was appointed to help Albania to improve in a tough group,{{cite web|url=https://fshf.org/en/edoardo-reja-new-manager-albania/|title=Edoardo Reja, the new manager of Albania|publisher=Albanian Football Association|date=17 April 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ocnal.com/2019/04/edoardo-reja-new-coach-of-albanian.html|title=Edoardo Reja, the new coach of the Albanian National Team|publisher=Ocnal.com|date=17 April 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} but improvement is still very little. The Albanian side continued to slump, suffering a 0–1 loss away to Iceland{{cite web|url=https://www.icelandreview.com/news/iceland-wins-euro-qualifier-against-albania-1-0/|title=Iceland Wins Euro Qualifier Against Albania, 1-0|publisher=Iceland Review|author=Larissa Kyzer|date=9 June 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} before managed to gain its second win against Moldova 2–0.{{cite web|url=https://invest-in-albania.org/albania-wins-against-moldova-2-0-in-uefa-euro-2020-qualifiers/|title=Albania Wins Against Moldova 2-0 in UEFA Euro 2020 Qualifiers|publisher=Invest in Albania|date=12 June 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} Reja would lead Albania in their encounter against world champions France in Paris, where the Albanians suffered a devastating 1–4 loss, the match was also marred with controversy after Andorran anthem was mistakenly played instead of Albanian one.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/49574096|title=France 4–1 Albania|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 September 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} After the defeat, Albania managed one of its biggest feat in their qualification, beating 2018 World Cup participant Iceland 4–2 at home soil to keep the team on track.{{cite web|url=http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-09/11/c_138382862.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911193718/http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-09/11/c_138382862.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 11, 2019|title=Albania defeat Iceland 4-2 in Euro 2020 qualifier|publisher=Xinhua.net|date=11 September 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} Despite this outcome, Albania's trip to Turkey became a nightmare, when the Albanians, despite its passionate display, lost 0–1 in final minutes because of defensive mistake, thus losing every chance to qualify for the UEFA Euro 2020.{{cite web|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/sports/football-turkey-beat-albania-1-0-in-euro-2020-quals/1610975|title=Football: Turkey beat Albania 1-0 in Euro 2020 quals|publisher=Anadolu Agency|author=Can Erözden|date=12 October 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}} In the next match, Albania won comfortably 4–0 versus Moldova at Zimbru Stadium, achieving the fourth win in group; by doing so, Albania set two records: it was the biggest away win in competitive matches and the first time in history that Albania has scored three goals in the first half in competitive matches and second time overall, though it was not enough to prevent Albania from elimination.{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/video-spektakel-i-shqiperise-kuqezinjte-arrijne-fitore-rekord-ne-moldavi/|title=VIDEO/ Spektakël i Shqipërisë, kuqezinjtë arrijnë fitore rekord në Moldavi|trans-title=Video/ Spectacle of Albania, redblacks achieve a record win in Moldova|publisher=Panorama Sport|date=15 October 2019|access-date=16 October 2019}}

{{Reflist|3}}

• [http://fshf.org/index.php/sq/ Albania Football Association official profile]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20100325163521/http://www.uefa.com/teamsandplayers/teams/teama/team=2/profile/index.html Albania national team profile] at UEFA.com

{{Albania national football team}}

Category:Albania national football teams

Albania