Albania national football team

Mens national football team.

The Albania national football team, known as Kuqezinjtë (The Red and Blacks), represents Albania in international football matches. It is governed by the Albanian Football Association (FSHF), the governing body for football in Albania. The team is a member of UEFA in Europe and FIFA in global competitions. Their colors, red and black, reference two national symbols: the double-headed eagle and the country's tricolor.

Since joining FIFA in 1932, Albania has yet to qualify for a FIFA World Cup. However, they have made significant strides in European competitions. The team reached the UEFA European Championship for the first time in 2016 and again in 2024, marking their only appearances in major tournaments to date. Albania's best performance in the Euros came in 2016 when they secured their first win in a major tournament against Romania.

Albania's highest FIFA ranking was 22nd, achieved in August 2015, a remarkable ascent from their lowest ranking of 124th in August 1997. The team plays its home matches at the Arena Kombëtare in Tirana, which replaced the historic Qemal Stafa Stadium in 2019.

Throughout their history, Albania has produced several notable players. Lorik Cana holds the record for most caps with 93 appearances, while Erjon Bogdani is the top scorer with 18 goals. The team has been led by various high-profile coaches, including current manager Sylvinho.

Albania has achieved some memorable results, including a 3-0 victory over Serbia in a politically charged Euro 2016 qualifier and a 1-0 away win against Portugal in the same campaign. The team has also shown improvement in recent years, securing promotion to League B in the UEFA Nations League.