Latvia vs Albania, FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, Today Match Prediction

Latvia vs Albania Match Prediction & Analysis

Latvia hosts Albania in a crucial Group K World Cup qualifier. Albania currently holds second place with four points from three games, while Latvia is a point behind with a game in hand, making this match vital for playoff aspirations.

Latvia began their campaign with a 1-0 win over Andorra but then suffered a 3-0 defeat to England. They've struggled for goals, with a recent 0-0 draw against Azerbaijan marking their fourth goalless outing in seven matches. 

Albania also faces attacking concerns, having drawn 0-0 with Serbia and failing to score in three of their last five games. Their only recent win was a 3-0 victory against Andorra. With both teams struggling for consistent goalscoring form, a tight contest is expected as they vie for that coveted second spot in the group.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Latvia Preview

Latvia, currently third in Group K, faces Albania after a mixed start to their World Cup qualifiers. They secured a 1-0 win against Andorra but were comprehensively outclassed by England in a 3-0 defeat. 

A recent 0-0 friendly draw with Azerbaijan highlights their significant attacking struggles, with only three goals netted in their last seven outings and four clean sheets against them in that period.

Under Paolo Nicolato, Latvia's overall form is concerning, with just one win in their past seven matches. Their home form is also shaky, winless in three home fixtures. The squad largely lacks star power, with defender Kristers Tobers, recently returned from injury, being their most prominent player. 

Nicolato is focused on building confidence in his young squad, which includes several U21 call-ups. However, with leading scorer Dario Sits injured and captain Kristers Tobers's participation uncertain, Latvia's offensive struggles are likely to persist against Albania. 

Latvia Probable Starting Lineup: Zviedris; Jurkovskis, Cernomordijs, Balodis; Savaļnieks, Saveljevs, Zelenkovs, Ciganiks; Jaunzems, Ikaunieks; Gutkovskis

Albania Preview

Albania, currently second in Group K, aims to maintain their playoff position against Latvia. While they impressed at Euro 2024, their current World Cup qualifying campaign has yielded mixed results. 

They held Serbia to a goalless draw but struggled offensively, generating just 0.26 xG from open play. Their overall form shows two wins, two draws, and two losses in their last six matches, with four clean sheets but only five goals scored.

On the road, Albania's record is equally inconsistent, with two wins and two losses in their last five away games. They face a historical pattern of draws against Latvia, with all four previous encounters ending level, including a 3-3 draw in 1999. 

With key player Kristjan Asllani from Inter expected to anchor the midfield, Albania will look to their attacking talent, including Armando Broja and Rey Manaj, to break their recent scoring drought. However, they will be without Berat Djimsiti due to suspension, a notable absence for Sylvinho's side. 

Albania Probable Starting Lineup: Strakosha; Hysaj, Ajeti, Ismajli, Mitaj; Asllani, Shehu; Broja, Laci, Hoxha; Manaj

LATVIA vs ALBANIA
Winning Prediction

Albania are the favorites to secure a crucial win against Latvia. Despite both teams' recent struggles for goals, Albania possesses a stronger squad and a solid defensive record. Given Latvia's offensive woes and poor home form against stronger opponents, Albania is expected to capitalize on their opportunities and clinch a narrow victory, likely a 1-0 scoreline, with under 2.5 total goals in the match.

Albania to Win (0-1)

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