Women’s Albania National Team learned today its opponents in the first and second round of the playoff phase for the “Brazil 2027” FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
Following the draw held at UEFA headquarters, the Red and Blacks were drawn against Wales in the first round, and if they advance, they will face the winner of the Romania vs. Norway tie in the second round.
After the draw, head coach Armir Grima commented for fshf.org on the first-round opponent, the team’s chances of progressing further, and the significance of Albania reaching the playoff stage.
Draw and match against Wales:
We got an opponent we are familiar with. The match we played in Elbasan was quite a respectable one. We will play our chances, make our efforts to go through, and perhaps we will also need a bit of luck to overcome this opponent.
Reaching the playoff stage:
It is true. All opponents are very strong, no matter who we would have drawn. We know the difficulty and strength of these teams, but we will do our best and go onto the pitch to perform at our highest level.
Potential second-round opponent (Romania or Norway):
I think it is better to take things step by step and not think too far ahead. Let’s focus on what needs to be done in this match first, and then we will have time to talk about the next round. Both are teams we have played against. Norway is very strong, but our focus is first on Wales.
Message to the players after reaching the playoffs:
I am very satisfied with the girls, and happy with the results they have achieved. They deserve it; they have given a lot. But we still have more to give, and we must make an extra effort to show that our national team is improving and has quality.
