Albania vs England preview, prediction, team news, and head-to-head

Group K leaders, England, have already sealed a spot at the 2026 WC finals, while their hosts are confirmed to have a place at the playoff after winning Andorra.

England head into this clash flying high, having won all seven of their Group K games. They have not conceded a single goal so far and have scored 20 at the other end, giving them a clear upper hand.

Their latest 2-0 win over Serbia was just another example of how in control they are right now.  Manager Thomas Tuchel is likely to shuffle the pack a bit, giving some of the squad players a chance to shine while resting the big names for tougher games ahead.

Albania, led by coach Sylvinho, is enjoying a strong run of form. Their 1-0 win over Andorra in midweek booked them a spot in the play offs and continued their winning streak. They have been solid at the back lately, grinding out narrow wins and keeping things tight defensively.

With home fans behind them in Tirana, they will be full of energy, but the challenge is big. Albania has never found it easy against England and will likely set up defensively to stay organised and tough to break down.

Don't forget to check out our daily betting tips on BET OF THE DAY

England has been in complete control every time they have faced Albania. Before this match, the two teams had met seven times, and England had won all seven. Albania has never managed a draw or a win, and England usually scores plenty in those games.

That kind of history shows just how dominant the Three Lions have been in this fixture. When you add in their current hot form, it sets the tone for what to expect in Tirana.

Albania heads into this match in great shape, no injuries, no suspensions, and a full squad ready to go. Their recent win over Andorra didn’t bring any new concerns, which means coach Sylvinho has the freedom to pick his best lineup.

We will  likely see big names like Burnley striker Armando Broja, leading the attack, and captain Berat Djimsiti, holding things steady at the back. Also watch out for veteran defender Elseid Hysaj, who is closing in on his 100th appearance for the national team.

England will miss centre back Marc Guehi, who pulled out with a foot injury. Manager Thomas Tuchel plans to shake up the lineup, giving chances to players like Jordan Henderson and new faces like Alex Scott and Trevoh Chalobah. 

Harry Kane will probably lead the attack, with Phil Foden and Marcus Rashford possibly starting again after coming off the bench last game.

Albania: Strakosha; Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Asllani, Shehu; Broja, Laci, Hoxha; Manaj

England: Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Stones, Burn; Wharton, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Eze; Kane

Both teams have been strong in defense recently. Albania, already qualified for the playoffs, will not take many risks. So, expect a close, careful game. England has better players and wants to finish the group without losing, so they are the favorites. Still, it will probably be a tight match, with England winning.

Prediction: Albania 1-2 England

• England to win

• Over 1.5 goals

• Over 8.5 corners