The Albanian national team was defeated away from Poland with a score of 2-1 in the semi-final of the "play-off" for the 2026 World Cup. The match held in Warsaw ended the red and black team's dream of continuing their path to the World Cup.
After the challenge, coach Sylvinho reacted, expressing disappointment with the result, but at the same time proud of the team's performance.
"I am deeply saddened. As a player and as a coach, I don't like to lose. It was a match that gives me satisfaction for what we gave on the field. It was a very strong opponent and I am proud of the boys on my team," he said.
The Brazilian coach emphasized that Albania played a very good first half and managed to score, while in the second half the team had less control, although they created scoring chances.
Sylvinho added that the short preparation was an important factor, as the team only had a few days to work together.
"This is a journey and we need to be patient. If we go back three years ago, no one would have thought that Albania would go to the European Championship and be so competitive in the World Cup qualifiers. Poland is a team used to these levels," he said.
Asked about his future after July, Sylvinho said he is now focused on the next matches, mentioning the upcoming match against Ukraine.
