The upcoming World Cup qualifying match between Latvia and Albania at Stadions Skonto presents a compelling scenario for both teams. Latvia currently occupies third place in Group K with three points, while Albania sits slightly ahead with four points . The recent form of the Latvian squad has been troubling, marked by a significant 3-0 defeat against England and an uninspiring goalless draw against Azerbaijan. In contrast, Albania has displayed a more competitive edge, securing two wins and two draws in their last six matches .
In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Albania currently holds second place in Group K, but Latvia, trailing by only one point with a game in hand, could overtake them. With England likely to win the group, the upcoming match at Skonto Stadium in Riga is crucial for both teams as they vie for the playoff spot awarded to the runner-up. We will analyze the scenarios to predict the outcome.
Latvia's record stands at 2 wins, 7 losses, and 1 draw, with an average of 0.5 goals from 1.8 shots on goal out of 5.6 attempts. They maintain 41.9% possession and average 2.8 corners per match. Their opponents average 2.0 goals from 5.3 shots on goal out of 12.9 attempts, and are awarded 5.5 corners on average. Dario Sits is their leading scorer with 2 goals, followed by Roberts Uldrikis and Renars Varslavans with 1 each. Roberts Savalnieks, Dmitrijs Zelenkovs, and Andrejs Ciganiks each have 1 assist, and Krisjanis Zviedris has 1 clean sheet.
Albania has a record of 3 wins, 5 losses, and 2 draws, averaging 0.7 goals from 3.1 shots on goal out of 8.9 attempts. They average 46.6% possession, 2.7 corners for, and 4.7 corners against, while conceding 0.9 goals from 3.4 shots on goal out of 12.2 attempts. Rey Manaj leads their scoring with 2 goals, followed by Myrto Uzuni, Nedim Bajrami, Kristjan Asllani, and Jasir Asani with 1 goal each. Arber Hoxha, Armando Broja, and Kristjan Asllani each have 1 assist, and Thomas Strakosha has 4 clean sheets.
Latvia possible starting lineup:
Zviedris; Jurkovskis, Cernomordijs, Balodis; Savaļnieks, Saveljevs, Zelenkovs, Ciganiks; Jaunzems, Ikaunieks; Gutkovskis
Albania possible starting lineup:
Strakosha; Hysaj, Ajeti, Ismajli, Mitaj; Asllani, Shehu; Broja, Laci, Hoxha; Manaj
Albania's strong recent defensive record should give them confidence in containing their hosts. Latvia's poor offensive form makes it unlikely they can recover if they concede first.However, Albania will need to be wary of Latvia's potential to score from set-pieces. Overall, a low-scoring match is anticipated, with Albania having the edge due to their superior defensive strength and Latvia's struggles in front of goal. A narrow victory for Albania is the most probable outcome.
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