The Albanian U-17 national football team is set to begin its training camp this Sunday ahead of the first qualifying round of the UEFA European Under-17 Championship 2026. Under the guidance of coach Fatjon Tafaj, the young Red and Blacks aim to make their mark in Group 8, where they will face some of Europe’s most competitive youth teams: the Netherlands, Croatia, and Kazakhstan. Croatia will host this mini-tournament, adding a layer of challenge for Tafaj’s squad as they prepare to compete on away soil.
A Focused Squad for a Promising Campaign
Coach Tafaj has announced a 20-player squad for these crucial qualifying matches. The roster includes two goalkeepers, eight defenders, six midfielders, and five forwards, carefully selected from both domestic and international clubs. The balance between experienced youth players and emerging talents demonstrates Tafaj’s strategy to blend technical skill with tactical discipline.
The team will gather directly in Croatia, where all preparations will take place before the competition begins. This approach is intended to give the players optimal conditions to adapt to the environment, focus on recovery, and develop team chemistry before the opening match.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, coach Tafaj emphasized the importance of mental preparation:
“Our goal is not only to compete but to demonstrate progress, discipline, and the Albanian football spirit. Every player here has earned his place and carries the pride of representing our country.”
The Fixtures: A Challenging Path Ahead
Albania’s U-17 campaign kicks off with an exciting and challenging fixture against the Netherlands on November 11 at 13:45. Known for their tactical precision and strong footballing tradition, the Dutch team will undoubtedly test Albania’s defensive resilience and strategic organization.
The second match will be even more demanding, as the young Red and Blacks face the hosts, Croatia, on November 14 at 11:30. Playing against the home team often adds emotional and psychological intensity, but it also offers a valuable opportunity for Albania’s players to measure themselves against top European prospects.
Finally, the group stage will conclude with the match against Kazakhstan on November 17 at 11:30. This encounter could prove decisive for qualification, depending on the outcomes of the first two matches. Tafaj’s side will likely enter this game with a clearer understanding of their tactical strengths and weaknesses.
All matches of the qualifying round will be broadcast live on FSHF TV, allowing Albanian fans and football enthusiasts to follow the journey of the next generation of national team hopefuls.
Building the Future of Albanian Football
The U-17 category has always been a crucial development stage for Albanian football. Many of today’s senior internationals first showcased their talent at this level before earning moves to professional clubs abroad. The Albanian Football Association (FSHF) has placed increasing emphasis on youth development programs, infrastructure improvements, and international scouting over the last decade.
This year’s U-17 squad reflects that evolution. Several players come from established academies in Italy, Germany, and Switzerland — a sign of the Albanian diaspora’s growing influence on the national team structure. The blend of local and international experience is expected to give the team more tactical flexibility and better understanding of modern European football dynamics.
The Spirit of Competition and National Pride
Beyond the results, the Albanian U-17’s participation in these qualifiers carries broader symbolic importance. It represents a chance for young athletes to wear the national jersey, gain invaluable experience, and showcase Albania’s growing football culture to a wider audience.
Coach Tafaj and his technical staff have made it clear that the priority is to instill discipline, professionalism, and collective effort. Whether facing strong opponents like the Netherlands or the host nation Croatia, the focus remains on growth and consistency.
The atmosphere in the camp is described as highly motivated, with players eager to prove themselves on the European stage. The Albanian supporters, both at home and abroad, will be watching closely, cheering for their team to achieve a memorable result.
Looking Ahead
While qualification for the next round will be challenging, the experience gained from competing at this level is crucial for the players’ long-term development. These matches offer a chance for Albania’s young talents to face elite opposition, adapt to international standards, and prepare for the future of Albanian football.
The road to the UEFA European Under-17 Championship 2026 may be long, but for Albania, it starts with ambition, hard work, and unity. As coach Tafaj summed up:
“We carry our nation’s colors with pride. Every game is a step toward building the future of our football.”
Fans can follow every moment of the action live on FSHF TV, supporting the new generation of Albanian footballers as they chase their European dream.
Coach
Fatjon Tafaj
Squad Breakdown
The following players have been called up for the upcoming November matches:
🥅 Goalkeepers (PORTIERË):
Simon Lleshi
Klejton Uruci
🛡️ Defenders (MBROJTËS):
Enea Bilishti
Konstantinos Varesi
Frensi Mali
Dennis Ettore Pierro
Kejdi Kaceli
Robin Balla
Xhoel Mezani
Simon Uldedaj
mid-fielders (MESFUSHORË):
Petro Marku
Kledi Qosja
Dion Vata
Mattias Allasufi
Daniele Lulaj
forward-lines (SULMUES):
Majkol Luka
Ermal Ymeri
Sokol Uldedaj
Armend Muslika
Elson Himallari
Upcoming Match Schedule
Mark your calendars! Here are the dates and times for the matches, where the Albanian team will face off against strong European competition:
| Date | Match-Up | Time (CET) |
| November 11 | Albania - Netherlands | 13:45 |
| November 14 | Croatia - Albania | 11:30 |
| November 17 | Kazakhstan - Albania | 11:30 |