Albania National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

Daku · Hoxha · Broja · Muçi (Ose Bajrami, Asani) · Ajeti · Asllani (Shehu, Laçi, Ramdani) · Sherri (Ose Strakosha) · Gjimshiti · Ismajli (Kumbulla) · Mitaj · Balliu (Ose hysaj)

Albania relies on a high press and direct verticality in a 4-3-3. This formation is built to win the ball high up the pitch and quickly transition into attacking phases to catch the opposition out of position. The lineup aims to stretch the defence by using wide players to create space for central runners.

Sherri guards the goal as the last line of defence. The back line functions as a flat back four that can step up to squeeze the space in a high line. Ismajli and Gjimshiti act as the central defenders, where Ismajli provides aerial strength and Gjimshiti covers the space behind. Balliu operates as an attacking full back on the right to provide width, while Mitaj plays as the left back to support the build up play. The unit works to maintain a compact shape to prevent through balls.

The midfield operates with a three-man midfield with a carrier role. Asllani works to connect the defensive and attacking lines, while Ajeti helps to shield the defence and recycle possession. Muçi plays as an attacking ten behind the striker, looking to find pockets of space between the lines. This midfield trio must press aggressively to win the ball back high up the pitch and immediately look to play through the lines.

Albania uses three attackers across the front to pin the last defender. Daku acts as the central striker to hold up the ball and provide a physical presence. On the flanks, Hoxha and Broja play as wide wingers who hug the touchline to pull the opposition wide. This creates opportunities for Muçi to arrive late into the box or for the wingers to cut inside and shoot. The attack focuses on quick combinations to hit the opposition in behind on the transition.

This formation offers several tactical advantages for Albania. The team can create wide overloads from the overlapping full backs of Balliu and Mitaj. They also possess the ability to press high in coordinated waves, forcing the opposition into mistakes. The presence of Daku allows the team to win the second ball and maintain pressure in the final third.

The 4-3-3 setup allows Albania to maintain control through high pressing and quick vertical transitions. This formation is best suited for matches against teams that play a high line and struggle to defend space in behind.