Albania vs Macedonia
European Qualifiers – 2018 World Cup
Date: Monday; 5-September-2016
Kick-off: 19:45 UK
Venue: Loro Borici Stadium (Shkoder).


Albania had a decent run at the Euro 2016 where they managed to finish third in a tough group which includes the hosts France, Switzerland and Romania. Another chapter begins in their footballing history as they eye another successful qualifying campaign, but this time for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Macedonia national football team haven’t qualified for a major tournament. But they came close during the 2010 World cup qualifying campaign but were denied by back-to-back defeats against Scotland and Norway in their final two matches. During the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, they finished last in their group. Macedonia were a part of Yugoslavia and became a part of UEFA as a single nation in 1994.

Albania vs Macedonia: Head-to-Head

  • Macedonia had won in 4 of the 8 meetings against Albania so far, while they drew 4 and lost once. The latest meeting was on November 2011 which ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
  • Albania haven’t won in their last three home games against Macedonia as they lost once and drawn two.
  • All the previous eight meetings between Albania and Macedonia were international friendly games and this will be their first competitive meeting.

Albania vs Macedonia: Prediction

Albania have grown into a strong side since these two sides met for the last time in 2011. While Macedonia have suffered a big decline and this is highlighted by their poor away form in recent years. The Macedonian side haven’t won an away game since November 20011, which is a barren run of 22 away games.

Albania are a spirited side at home and they must win this without any problem. However, fewer goals are expected from this fixture as none of Albania’s four home games against Macedonia have seen over 2 goals. I will be also backing my correct score prediction of a 1-0 win in favour of the hosts at the odds of 4.50 (7/2).

Albania vs Macedonia: Betting Tips

Albania to win at 7/11 (1.70)
Under 2.5 goals at 2/5 (1.40).