The last ten years for the Albanian national team can be described as a period of flourishing. At Euro 2016 in France, the country for the first time in its history took part in a continental tournament, and two years ago repeated this achievement. As a result of the draws for major tournaments, the Albanians are no longer perceived as sources of points. Its squad includes players who compete in Serie A, the English Premier League and other strong European domestic leagues. The rise of the Albanian national team was underscored by qualification for the World Cup in North America. In a group with England and Serbia, the Albanians managed to finish second. That campaign is something the Albanians can be proud of, especially because of victories over Serbia both at home and away. Despite Albania's immediate defeat in the playoff for the 2026 World Cup, they were not subjected to serious criticism at home. Nevertheless, there were changes in the coaching staff. The team appointed Italian specialist Rolando Maran. An experienced coach who since 2000 has led Serie A and Serie B clubs. Maran's first test in an official match was graded 'excellent'. The Albanians in Tirana hosted Belarus. The match did not go easily, but at home they won 2-0. The first goal from a penalty was scored by Kristjan Asllani, who plays for Al-Jazira, the second by attacking midfielder Ernest Muci of Trabzonspor. The Albanians have fond memories of the upcoming opponent. Just over five years ago in Tirana they beat San Marino 5-0, repeating their own record thrashing. Overall, with the tiny state's national team the Albanians have met four times. All matches ended in victories with a total score of 13:0. Only in one of the four first halves of these meetings did Albania fail to score. San Marino's national team is one of the weakest teams in Europe and the world. In the FIFA ranking it sits 211th. Half of its players do not have professional status. The first Nations League match, San Marino at home lost to Finland 0:7. Three of the seven goals conceded came in the first half. Let's bet that Albania will establish a lead in the score already by halftime.