England vs. Albania: Preview and betting tips

England’s last match against Hungary complicated an otherwise well played qualification. They can now secure their top spot in Group I at home to Albania, who are also bravely trailing the dominant duo.

The first measurement of strength was quite clearly in favour of Gareth Southgate’s charges, who have only conceded three goals in this qualification. On the other hand, they have scored 24, more than double that of their opponents on Friday.

England benefit from a very wide squad, when 3-4 players drop out of the starting line-up, Southgate usually has two more footballers of no less quality in the midfield. They have benefited immensely from that and will continue to do so in this game.

“These teams are very well organised and you need to break down their stubborn defence. However, the quality of our players is great to do that.

It will be similar to Hungary, who defended really well. But our performance didn’t match the ones we’ve shown this calendar year,” Southgate told the pre-match press conference.

Albania certainly can’t boast of such quality, but a dogged performance has already earned them 15 points. They have won 5 of their 8 matches, but games against England and Poland (twice) have meant zero points.

England are playing at home and will surely be looking to seal their top spot for good. If it fails to do so, the next match against San Marino will 99%.

The home team should play relaxed and we could see a few goals. England score goals regularly at home, while Albania, who need to score, score more than twice very often away.