Albania in historic win over Serbia in Leskovac, takes major step toward 2026 World Cup

Albania achieved a historic 1–0 victory over Serbia in Leskovac, in one of the most anticipated matches of the World Cup qualifiers. The only goal of the game came from Rei Manaj, who became the first Albanian player in history to score on Serbian soil.

Why is this important: The win puts Albania firmly on course for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, moving to 11 points, four ahead of Serbia, which has a game in hand. The match was charged with emotion, marked by a tense atmosphere, tactical discipline, and hostile chants against Kosovo — but in the end, it was Albania that celebrated, handing Serbia a defeat its fans will not forget.

Context: The game brought back memories of the infamous 2014 Belgrade clash, which ended in chaos and was later awarded 3–0 to Albania. This time, heavy security and restricted attendance kept the tension in check, but the rivalry remained fierce both on and off the pitch.

With the victory, Albania’s qualification hopes now depend partly on Serbia’s remaining fixtures. The Serbs face Andorra next Tuesday a match that could narrow the gap to one point if they win. The next decisive date for Albania is November 13, when the team hosts Andorra while Serbia faces England — a game that could seal Albania’s place in the World Cup playoffs if results go their way.

What else: The defeat prompted an immediate resignation from Serbia’s coach Dragan Stojković, who announced he will not travel with the team to Andorra. His assistant is expected to lead the squad in the next match.

Meanwhile, Albania’s national team, under coach Sylvinho, returned to training in preparation for a friendly match against Jordan, as the country celebrates one of its most important victories in recent football history.