On Monday, Georgia will look to get back to winning ways when they host Albania in a crucial UEFA Nations League clash.
Match Preview:
After a remarkable journey in Euro 2024, where they reached the knockout stage for the first time, Georgia will be eager to build on their success in the Nations League. Despite a setback in their last match against Ukraine, where they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat, they remain at the top of Group 1 in League B with six points from three matches.
Georgia’s head coach, Willy Sagnol, has seen his team perform well in the competition, including a strong 4-1 win over the Czech Republic and a previous victory against Albania. However, with the Czech Republic also sitting on six points, Georgia must secure a win to maintain their promotion hopes.
On the other hand, Albania, managed by Sylvinho, started their Nations League campaign with a promising win over Ukraine but have since lost two consecutive matches, leaving them in third place with just three points. They will need to improve their form if they wish to avoid relegation and remain competitive in the group. Historically, Albania has struggled against Georgia, not winning since June 2005, although recent encounters have been more competitive.
Georgia’s Recent Form:
- Nations League: W, W, L (4-1 vs Czech Republic, 1-0 vs Albania, 0-1 vs Ukraine)
- All Competitions: Strong showing at Euro 2024.
Albania’s Recent Form:
- Nations League: W, L, L (2-1 vs Ukraine, 0-1 vs Georgia, 0-2 vs Czech Republic)
- All Competitions: Struggled in the recent Euro 2024 group stage.
Team News:
Georgia:
- Coach Sagnol is expected to have a fully fit squad after their match against Ukraine. Key players such as Giorgi Mamardashvili and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who shone at Euro 2024, will be crucial for Georgia’s attacking play.
- Guram Kashia, the team captain, will also play a pivotal role in defense, while Georges Mikautadze, the joint-top scorer at Euro 2024, will aim to add to his tally.
Possible Georgia Starting Lineup:
- Mamardashvili; Gvelesiani, Kashia, Dvali; Kakabadze, Kochorashvili, Kiteischvili, Chakvetadze, Lochoshvili; Mikautadze, Kvaratskhelia.
Albania:
- Albania is expected to feature Elseid Hysaj as captain and Thomas Strakosha in goal, providing experience and leadership.
- Kristjan Asllani from Inter Milan will play a crucial role in midfield, and Nedim Bajrami will look to make an impact in the attacking third.
Possible Albania Starting Lineup:
- Strakosha; Hysaj, Ismaili, Kumbulla, Mitaj; Laci, Ramadani; Asani, Asllani, Bajrami; Daku.
Prediction:
This match presents a challenging opportunity for both sides. While Georgia aims to recover from their recent defeat and capitalize on home advantage, Albania will be looking to regain their footing and avoid further setbacks. Given Georgia’s stronger form and the historical context of their matches, they are favored to secure the victory.
Prediction: Georgia 2-1 Albania
Expect a competitive match, but Georgia’s quality and recent form should see them through to another three points.
