Albania vs Poland
European Championship Qualifying
Group E
Sunday
10th September 2023
Arena Kombetare
Albania vs Poland: Preview
Preview & Predictions of the European Championship Qualifying fixture in Group E at the Arena Kombetare.
Albania form analysis
Albania’s start to the qualifiers was not smooth as they dropped points to Poland on the road in a narrow 1-0 loss.
Against Moldova at home, Albania grinded out a 2-0 win thanks to second half goals from Joni Asani and Nedim Bajrami. It was an important three points to kickstart their qualifying campaign.
They backed this up with an impressive 1-3 away victory against Faroe Islands. Bajrami again scored before Faroe Islands equalized right on halftime. However, Albania showed character to retake the lead through Keidi Asllani before sealing the win late via Elvin Muçi’s goal.
Overall, these two wins provide Albania with a perfect start to qualifying as they aim to make Euro 2024. A blend of resilient defending and clinical finishing has been the key formula in these opening victories. Maintaining this solidity and focus will be crucial as they face tougher group stage tests ahead.
Poland form analysis
Poland began this international break in March 2023 with a disappointing 1-3 loss away to Czech Republic. Despite starting well to lead 2-0, Poland’s defense collapsed as they conceded 3 second half goals to lose their opening qualifier.
They managed to bounce back with a narrow 1-0 home victory over Albania thanks to Krzysztof Piatek’s first half goal. It was an unconvincing performance but a vital win.
However, their form then took a turn for the worse this month as Poland suffered a shock 2-3 home defeat against minnows Moldova. Despite leading 2-0 at halftime through goals from Milik and Lewandowski, Poland surrendered the lead after the break to lose in a massive upset.
Overall, it’s been an extremely concerning pair of matches for Poland. Their renowned defense looked hugely vulnerable while the team lacked composure after going ahead in games. Finding stability at the back and seeing out leads will be critical for Poland’s hopes of qualifying for Euro 2024 after this poor start.
