Albania vs Czech Republic Prediction & Tips
European aspirations are on the line at a venue that hosted the first Europa Conference League final, as the teams occupying the top two places in Group E of the Euro qualifiers go head-to-head. After a solid performance so far (G3, E1, P1), which included a useful 1-1 draw in the first leg in September against the Czech Republic, Albania could put itself within reach of what would be just its second appearance in the Euro group stage after taking part in the 2016 edition.
That strong performance by Albania includes a pair of 2-0 home wins over Moldova and Poland, with the latter being seven places above the Czech Republic in the FIFA rankings. The visitors will need to be at their best if they are to get anything here, especially if Albania continue an excellent run that has seen them score at least twice in five of their last six home games in a Euro qualifier (G4, E1, P1).
Sitting two points behind Albania and with a game in hand (G2, E2), the Czechs can take a big step towards booking their place in what will be their eighth consecutive European Championship appearance. Securing qualification is essential for the visitors, who were relegated in their last UEFA Nations League campaign and will not have a play-off to fall back on like many other nations.
Improving their inconsistent away form in this tournament will be key for the Czech Republic if they are to qualify directly (G2, E1, P3), and they can be confident of doing so after avoiding defeat in their previous two meetings with Albania (G1, E1). And that’s not to mention the fact that the Czech Republic is enjoying its longest unbeaten streak of international matches (G3, E3) since ending another six-match sequence in 2009.
Players to watch: Since an opening-day loss to Poland, Albania’s Jasir Asani has contributed a goal in every appearance in this Euro qualifying campaign (two goals, two assists). Just as influential for the Czechs, Václav Černý has scored three goals in his last two knockout games – that’s more than he’s managed all season for Wolfsburg!
Key fact: Albania are enjoying their longest home clean sheet streak (three games) in over 13 years.
Albania – Czech Republic FREE TIPS
BTS/YES @ 2.00
