The Albanian national football team is entering a decisive phase in the European qualifiers, and coach Sylvinho addressed the media to explain his player selections and the team’s mindset before the upcoming matches against Andorra and England. The Brazilian tactician, who has now been at the helm for nearly three years, emphasized the importance of continuity, discipline, and belief as Albania eyes a potential play-off qualification.
A Coach Reflecting on Three Years of Progress
“It's been three years since we started this journey,” Sylvinho told reporters during the press conference after announcing the official squad list. “Now comes a very beautiful moment — the closing of a year where we are still in the race for a play-off. We have two very important matches ahead.”
Sylvinho reflected on Albania’s transformation since he took charge, highlighting the steady progress made despite the limited player pool. “Unfortunately, we have a limit — we don’t have 70 or 80 players to choose from. We monitor around 40 to 45 players. But within that group, we have built strong competition and identity,” he noted.
Trust in Bajrami and the Core Squad
One of the key topics of discussion was the inclusion and continued trust in Nedim Bajrami, who has been a crucial figure for Albania under Sylvinho’s tenure. “Bajrami has made a great journey with us,” Sylvinho said. “In the last three years, who has been our top scorer? It’s Bajrami, with 7 goals. Then Asani with 6, and Manaj with 4. Beyond that, Bajrami gives me confidence when he steps on the field.”
The coach admitted that he would prefer Bajrami to have more regular club minutes but defended his decision to keep faith in the attacking midfielder. “It’s true that I’m not happy he isn’t playing much at club level, but as a coach, I have to reason based on numbers, performances, and trust,” Sylvinho explained.
This kind of loyalty has become a hallmark of the Brazilian’s management style. Since taking over, he has focused on building a consistent core of players who understand the tactical system and each other’s movements on the field.
Respecting Andorra: A Warning Against Complacency
As Albania prepares to face Andorra, a team often underestimated in European football, Sylvinho was quick to warn his players — and fans — that there are no easy matches at this stage.
“I have great respect for Andorra,” he said. “Last time, they drew in friendlies and even gave Latvia a hard time. They lost at home to Serbia, but they kept the score level for a long time. I watched their games — they are tough, organized, and play with heart. Andorra doesn’t give up easily.”
The coach emphasized that Albania cannot afford complacency: “They don’t lose 5 or 6–0 against England. I know it, and my players know it too — it’s a difficult match. They defend with spirit and fight until the last minute. We must be patient, disciplined, and focused.”
Eyes on the Play-Offs
Despite setbacks and the pressure of expectations, Sylvinho remains confident in Albania’s chances to reach the play-offs, calling this phase “the reward of a consistent journey.”
“So far, we have had a good run,” he said. “We’ve lost only one match. Now we have the chance to go to the play-offs, and that’s our focus. I expect intensity and courage from my players. We can’t think about anything else — only about the next match and giving everything on the field.”
The coach’s words underline his tactical philosophy: collective effort over individual talent. Even without a deep pool of players, Sylvinho has managed to extract strong performances through organization and motivation, qualities that have transformed Albania into a more competitive side on the European stage.
The Albanian Spirit Under Sylvinho
Under Sylvinho’s leadership, Albania has developed a distinct identity — aggressive pressing, compact defense, and a fast transition game. But beyond tactics, the emotional and mental side of the game has been central to his project.
“We play with heart and soul,” Sylvinho often repeats, echoing his message once again in the press conference. “When you represent your country, you must give 100% for the shirt. That’s the mentality we’ve built, and that’s what I expect in every match.”
The upcoming clashes will not only test Albania’s tactical maturity but also their psychological strength. Facing Andorra requires patience and precision, while the showdown against England demands resilience and self-belief.
As the nation watches closely, Sylvinho’s words serve as both motivation and caution: the journey is not over yet. With a play-off spot within reach, Albania’s dream of qualifying for another major tournament depends on maintaining the same spirit, discipline, and focus that have carried them this far.