Can Poland overtake Albania in WCQ Group I?
Albania vs Poland - 12/10/2021
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Albania are second in World Cup qualifying Group I going into matchday 8. Just one point separates Albania and third-place Poland in Group I as the two teams prepare for a massive showdown in Tirana on Tuesday night.
Poland can leapfrog Albania in Group I with a win. However, anything less than a win would see Albania remain in second place with two games left to play in qualifying.
Albania have the more difficult fixture list. They must play England in November before facing off with Andorra. The English have the inside track to winning Group I. Albania’s fate could rest on England’s need to win the game at Wembley next month.
Poland face Andorra and Hungary in November in Group I play. Their schedule is much easier than Albania’s. However, a loss on Tuesday night would be a major dent in the team’s hopes of finishing second in the group.
Albania are coming off of a 1-0 away win against Hungary on matchday 7. Armando Broja scored on 80 minutes to give the Albanians a third straight win in qualifying.
Poland defeated San Marino 5-0. Paulo Sousa’s team is now four games unbeaten in qualifying and has plenty of momentum going into matchday 8.
These teams met in September in World Cup qualifying with Poland claiming a 4-1 win. Adam Buksa got on the scoresheet for Poland in the game. The New England Revolution player has been an international revelation for Poland.
Buksa has scored five goals in Poland’s last four international matches. The Polish international’s form for club and country has led to transfer links with Leicester City in January. Buksa is in great form and will fancy scoring a goal versus Albania.
Albania and Poland have played 12 times in their history dating back to 1949. The Albanians have won just once during that time period while losing eight matches and drawing three.
Albania defender Berat Djimsiti suffered a fractured forearm in the team's win over Hungary. Djimsiti is now facing months out on the sidelines. Endri Cekici is ruled out due to suspension. Broja should be included in the team after his winning goal against the Hungarians.
Wojciech Szczesny should start in goals for Poland with Jan Bednarek and Kamil Glik playing in front of him. Karol Linetty is suspended. Hertha Berlin striker Krzysztof Piątek scored on his return against Hungary. He will be in line to start the game in attack.
Poland defeated Albania 4-1 in September and should claim a second straight win versus their Group I rival.
The teams should combine for over 2.5 goals once more as both teams score goals. Poland will get the win and move into second place in the group.
Home team
Away team
Pred
Correct score
Avg. goals
Weather conditions
Coef.
Score
Live
coef.
WCQ
262747
2
1 - 3
3.94
13°
2.00
4.20
3.10
2.00
1
-1
1
0 - 1(0 - 0)
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