The Albanian national football team is preparing for an important October, as head coach Silvinho has announced the official squad list for the upcoming fixtures: the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Serbia and a friendly clash with Jordan. The Brazilian tactician has summoned 25 players, with the standout surprise being the call-up of Klisman Cake from Shkëndija Tetovo.
A New Face in the Squad
Klisman Cake, a 24-year-old central defender, has been a key figure for Shkëndija, helping the North Macedonian club reach the UEFA Europa Conference League group stage in a historic qualification campaign. His consistent performances have finally earned him a senior national team opportunity, after previously representing Albania at the U-21 level. For Silvinho, Cake’s inclusion reflects his determination to reward players who excel in their respective clubs, regardless of the league they compete in.
Full Squad Announcement
Here is the complete list of players called up by Silvinho for the October matches:
Goalkeepers: Thomas Strakosha, Mario Dajsinani, Simon Simoni
Defenders: Elseid Hysaj, Ivan Balliu, Mario Mitaj, Naser Aliji, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Berat Gjimshiti, Arlind Ajeti, Klisman Cake
Midfielders: Ylber Ramadani, Juljan Shehu, Kristjan Asllani, Medon Berisha, Qazim Laçi, Adrion Pajaziti, Nedim Bajrami, Arbër Hoxha, Jasir Asani
Forwards: Armando Broja, Myrto Uzuni, Rey Manaj, Mirlind Daku
The squad includes experienced leaders such as captain Elseid Hysaj, veteran center-back Berat Gjimshiti, and attacking stars Armando Broja and Myrto Uzuni, while also giving opportunities to young talents like Kristjan Asllani and Simon Simoni.
Preparation in Tirana
The national team will begin its training camp on Monday, October 6, in Tirana. The initial focus will be preparing for the high-stakes World Cup qualifier against Serbia, scheduled for Friday, October 11. The match will take place at the “Gradski Stadion Dubočica” in Leskovac, kicking off at 20:45 local time.
This match is expected to be intense, both on and off the field, given the long-standing rivalry and the importance of every point in the World Cup qualification campaign. Albania currently stands in a competitive position in its group, and a positive result against Serbia could significantly boost their chances of securing a historic spot in the next World Cup.
Friendly Against Jordan
Following the Serbia clash, Albania will host Jordan in a friendly on Monday, October 14, at the “Air Albania Stadium” in Tirana, with kickoff at 19:00. This match provides Silvinho the opportunity to rotate his squad, test tactical variations, and give valuable minutes to players who may not start in the Serbia fixture.
Tickets for the Albania–Jordan friendly are already available for purchase online and at physical sales points near the “Air Albania Stadium.” The Albanian Football Federation encourages fans to attend and support the team, as strong home support is seen as vital for building momentum ahead of future qualifiers.
Key Talking Points Ahead of the Matches
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The Importance of Broja’s Return: Chelsea forward Armando Broja continues to be Albania’s main attacking threat. His fitness and ability to convert chances could prove decisive, especially against Serbia’s solid defense.
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Uzuni and Daku in Top Form: Granada striker Myrto Uzuni and Rubin Kazan’s Mirlind Daku have both been in excellent form at club level, giving Silvinho multiple offensive options.
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Midfield Balance: With players like Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani, and Nedim Bajrami, Albania boasts a midfield that combines youth, creativity, and defensive stability.
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Defensive Reinforcements: The addition of Klisman Cake gives Silvinho another option in central defense, particularly useful against physically strong opponents.
Building Towards the Future
Silvinho has often emphasized the importance of developing a competitive squad with depth, rather than relying on a fixed starting eleven. The October call-ups reflect this philosophy, as Albania continues to blend experienced players with rising stars.
The upcoming fixtures will not only test Albania’s tactical maturity but also demonstrate how well the squad can handle pressure in must-win situations. The World Cup qualifier against Serbia is undoubtedly the priority, but the Jordan friendly will also serve as an important step in maintaining cohesion and providing opportunities to fringe players.
Conclusion
With an ambitious coach, a squad filled with both proven performers and promising newcomers, and the passionate support of Albanian fans, the national team enters October with optimism. The Serbia match represents a critical chance to advance closer to the World Cup dream, while the Jordan friendly will allow Silvinho to fine-tune strategies and evaluate his players.
All eyes will be on Leskovac and Tirana as Albania looks to make a strong statement on the international stage.