April 2026 will mark a historic and highly significant moment for Albanian futsal, as Albania hosts the FIFA Futsal World Cup 2026 preliminary qualifying tournament for Group E. The Albanian National Futsal Team will compete on home soil against Latvia, Cyprus, and San Marino, with all matches taking place in Tirana at the “Feti Borova” Olympic Park.
This mini-tournament, scheduled from April 9 to April 12, 2026, represents a major achievement for the Albanian Football Association (FSHF), which has officially secured the rights to organize the event in Albania. Hosting an international futsal competition of this level highlights the continuous development of futsal in the country and confirms Albania’s growing reputation within European football structures.
A Huge Opportunity for Albanian Futsal
For the Albanian national futsal team, this tournament is more than just a qualification round—it is a golden opportunity to make history. Under the guidance of head coach Erind Resuli, Albania enters the competition with a clear objective: finish in the top two of Group E and advance to the main qualification round of the FIFA Futsal World Cup.
Playing at home gives Albania a crucial advantage. The passionate support of Albanian fans, known for their energy and loyalty, is expected to create a powerful atmosphere inside the “Feti Borova” Olympic Park. Home support could prove decisive in tight matches, where motivation and confidence often make the difference.
Group E Overview: Albania, Latvia, Cyprus, San Marino
Group E is considered competitive but balanced, giving Albania a realistic chance to progress:
- Albania – Motivated, improving rapidly, and boosted by home advantage
- Latvia – Traditionally organized and physically strong
- Cyprus – Technically skilled with international futsal experience
- San Marino – Determined underdogs seeking to surprise
With only two qualification spots available, every match will be critical. Albania must demonstrate consistency, discipline, and attacking efficiency to secure progression.
Match Schedule at “Feti Borova” Olympic Park
All Group E matches will be played at the modern “Feti Borova” Olympic Park in Tirana, ensuring excellent conditions for players and fans alike.
- April 9, 2026 – First round of group matches
- April 10, 2026 – Second round of matches
- April 12, 2026 – Final and decisive group matches
The structure of the tournament ensures that the final matchday could be decisive, with qualification potentially decided in the very last games.
FSHF’s Role and the Growth of Futsal in Albania
The decision by FIFA and UEFA authorities to grant Albania hosting rights is a testament to the professionalism of FSHF and its long-term vision for futsal development. Over recent years, Albania has invested in infrastructure, coaching education, and youth futsal programs—efforts that are now bearing fruit.
Hosting an international tournament brings multiple benefits:
- Increased visibility for Albanian futsal
- Inspiration for young players
- Strengthening Albania’s position in European futsal
- Economic and sporting promotion for Tirana
This event reinforces Albania’s ambition to become a regional hub for futsal and indoor sports.
Coach Erind Resuli’s Vision
Head coach Erind Resuli has played a key role in shaping a competitive and disciplined national team. His focus on tactical organization, quick transitions, and mental preparation has given Albania a clearer identity on the futsal court.
Resuli has emphasized the importance of concentration and belief, especially in front of home fans. Qualification is realistic—but only if the team remains united and focused throughout all three matchdays.
The Importance of Albanian Fans
Albanian supporters are expected to be a decisive factor. Packed stands, red-and-black colors, and nonstop chanting can give Albania an emotional and psychological edge over opponents. For many fans, this tournament is a chance to witness international futsal at the highest level without leaving the country.
The message is clear: Albania plays at home, and Albania plays to qualify.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Albanian Futsal
The FIFA Futsal World Cup 2026 Group E preliminary tournament is a defining chapter for Albanian futsal. Hosting the competition, competing against respected European teams, and fighting for qualification represents progress, ambition, and belief.
With strong organization from FSHF, tactical leadership from coach Erind Resuli, and unwavering support from Albanian fans, Albania has every reason to dream of advancing to the main round.
April 2026 will not just be about matches—it will be about national pride, sporting growth, and writing a new page in Albanian futsal history.