Why is this important: The match, kicking off at 20:45, isn’t just another game—it’s a critical test that could define Albania’s path to securing a spot in next year’s European Championship. With only two matchdays left and Albania sitting in third place with six points, a victory could propel them toward the top of Group B1. Anything less, and their chances of topping the group and securing automatic qualification could slip away.

Why is this important: CNN’s coverage brings international attention to Albania’s remarkable journey from a repressive communist regime, once labeled the “North Korea of Europe,” to its vibrant transformation into a cultural and tourist hotspot. This renewed interest not only highlights Albania’s resilience but also showcases how the country is creatively repurposing remnants of its past. It enhances Albania’s image and promotes it as an appealing destination, offering visibility that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago.