Sports News Report
Sport: SoccerCategory: Scores & Results

Wales face Albania in Women's World Cup play-off first leg in Shkoder

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 2:38 PM

Last updated Oct 8, 2026

Wales face Albania in Women's World Cup play-off first leg in Shkoder
Summary

Wales will play against Albania in the first leg of the Women's World Cup play-off semi-final on October 9 at Loro Borici Stadium in Shkoder. Coach Rhian Wilkinson aims for a clean sheet and strong performance, despite a series of injuries that have sidelined nine regular squad members. Notable absences include Ceri Holland and Hayley Ladd, contributing to a younger squad featuring six uncapped players. Wales previously defeated Albania twice during the World Cup qualifying group stage in April, and the team aims to maintain positive momentum heading into this crucial match.

Source Links
Yahoo SportsBBC Sport
By the Numbers
  • •Match scheduled for October 9 at Loro Borici Stadium.
  • •Wales lost nine regular players to injuries ahead of the match.
  • •Wilkinson emphasizes the importance of a clean sheet.
  • •Wales aims to build on two previous wins over Albania in qualifying.
  • •A victory could lead to a play-off final against Norway or Romania.
Latest Updates
  • 2:38 PMYahoo Sports — Wales eye shutout in World Cup play-off first leg
  • 2:38 PMBBC Sport — Wales eye shutout in World Cup play-off first leg
What they're saying
"

Rhian Wilkinson sets a clean sheet as the first target for Wales in Friday's Women's World Cup play-off semi-final first leg against Albania.

"

Rhian Wilkinson sets a clean sheet as the first target for Wales in Friday's Women's World Cup play-off semi-final first leg against Albania.

Related Teams & Leagues
Soccer

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days