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Gjimshiti's absence, coach Silvinjo's choice for defense

2025-06-08 16:37:00, Sport CNA

Albania will face Latvia, with a confirmed absence in the defense department.

Captain Berat Gjimshiti will not be available to coach Silvinjo for the Group K match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, due to having accumulated yellow cards.

The Atalanta defender was booked during the 0-0 draw with Serbia. It was his third booking of the qualifiers, which automatically carries a one-match ban under FIFA's qualifying regulations.

Gjimshiti is a significant absence for the red and black team, both for his role as a leader on the pitch and for the stability he brings to the center of defense. Since the beginning of the qualifying campaign, he has been a key point in the back, starting as a starter and contributing to the organization and establishment of the team's back line.

To fill the void left by the captain's absence, the technical staff is expected to make some moves in the squad. One of the most likely alternatives is the return of Adrian Bajrami to the team. The defender, who was present in the stands in the match against Serbia, could be included in the list of 23 for the match against Latvia, to offer an additional solution in the defensive department.

Meanwhile, Gjimshiti's place in the starting lineup is expected to be taken by one of two other experienced names in the back: Ardian Ismajli or Marash Kumbulla. Both defenders are regulars on coach Silvinjo's roster and have played important matches with the red and black jersey. Current physical form, training performance and adaptation to the tactical scheme will be the main factors that will influence the final selection of the starter.

In the current conditions, Gjimshiti remains the only confirmed absence for the match against Latvia. The red and black team continues preparations with the full group in the rest of the departments, while the technical staff is focused on analyzing the opponent and adapting the game plan to secure the three points.

The match against Latvia is considered extremely important for the performance in Group K, considering that the Albanian team seeks to maintain the pace of the race for a qualifying spot for the 2026 World Cup.