World Cup Playoffs 2026: Poland-Albania, likely lineups

Today in Warsaw at 8:45 p.m., Poland and Albania face each other in an in-or-out match for access to the final playoff for the 2026 World Cup. Poland is considered the favorite, on the strength of the home factor and a positive streak against today’s opponents. Probierz’s team arrives in high spirits after their latest 3-2 win over Malta and is banking everything on the scoring qualities of Lewandowski. On the other side, Sylvinho’s Albania, fresh off a defeat against England, is looking for a historic feat. Despite the heavy absences in the attack of Manaj and Daku, the guests will rely on the solidity of captain Djimsiti and the talent of Asllani to try to surprise the Poles on the counterattack.

Probierz’s team is relying heavily on experience. In goal is Grabara, protected by the defense led by Kiwior. In midfield, the game is in the hands of Zielinski, who is tasked with getting the team’s play going. But the real strength lies in front, where everything revolves around bomber Lewandowski. Behind him move Zalewski and Szymanski, ready to invent to send the opponent’s defense into a crisis and serve good balls to their captain.

Sylvinho points to the solidity of his group. In goal is Strakosha, with Djimsiti leading the defense. On the flanks act the full-backs Hysaj and Mitaj, ready to close every space. In the middle of the field, the talents of Asllani will serve to recover the ball and get the action going right away. In attack, the number one danger is the speed of Uzuni, who together with forward Broja will try to strike on the counterattack taking advantage of any Poland distraction.

The likely lineups

POLAND (3-4-2-1): Grabara; Kedziora, Kiwior, Wisniewski; Cash, Slisz, Zielinski, Szymanski; Zalewski, Skoras, Lewandowski. All. Probierz.

ALBANIA (4-2-3-1): Strakosha; Hysaj, Ismajli, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Ramadani, Asllani; Bajrami, Uzuni, Hoxha; Broja. All. Sylvinho.