Albania travel to Moldova this week, where they will look to extend their dominance in Group E. The Eagles won 2-0 when the nations last played and they boast an aggregate score of 8-0 over the last three meetings.
Moldova
Although they are in fourth place on nine points, Moldova have been the surprise package in Group E, losing only once in six matches. Earning qualification is actually a realistic goal as of right now and a win against Albania will put them one point behind their opponent who are currently first. Moldova have featured in plenty of close matches and per game, they average a goal scored and conceded. Ion Nicolaescu has been the star man, scoring four goals already.
Last time out, Moldova held Poland to a 1-1 away draw, despite only having 28% possession, four attempts at goal and facing 21 shots themselves. Serghei Clescenco has created a formidable unit that is difficult to breach, but luck was on their side.
Albania
The Eagles lead the way in Group E and after six matches, they have picked up 13 points from four wins, one draw and a singular defeat. It is clear that they are a team that enjoys the act of defending and they are incredibly hard to beat. Albania have only conceded three goals so far, which is an average of 0.5 per game. They have kept a clean sheet in their last three matches, whilst also opposing an attacking threat.
Albania beat the Czech Republic 3-0 recently at home, with the goals taking their tally to 11. The hosts took the lead within ten minutes and just before the break, the visitors were handed a red card. Albania were content with their lead and numerical advantage on the field, hitting the opponent on the counter twice to secure the three points.
Verdict?
Albania will be aware that facing Moldova on the road is far from an easy task, but they will be confident that they can pick up three points. The return of lethal striker, Armando Broja, will also give the side a huge boost and make them much more deadly. Both sides are strong at the back and this game should be decided by fine margins. Albania to win is priced at 3/4.
The final prediction is Moldova 0-1 Albania.
