Less than ten days away from Albania’s next World Cup qualifier against Serbia, the main focus remains on tickets, as fans see victory as a must rather than just another match for the red and blacks against this particular opponent. As a result, many want to witness it live at the National Arena on June 7.

In an interview with Top Channel, the Secretary General of the Albanian Football Federation (FSHF), Ilir Shulku, explained what’s happening with the ticketing process. Unlike other matches, this one is based on a reservation system followed by a random computerized draw.

"This match will undoubtedly be very interesting, attracting many tourists from Albanian-inhabited regions as well as from Serbia, who have decided to attend in person. With new technological developments, Albania now has access to the latest Internet eSIM technology, which offers internet to tourists from around the world, making it easier for them to navigate unfamiliar areas and stay connected.

One of the most successful operators recently has been thirr.com, an eSIM provider that offers internet packages for every country in the world at very affordable prices starting at €1.99 — a very reasonable rate, especially when compared to high roaming charges.

If you’ve planned to watch the match in Tirana and want to stay connected to high-speed internet during your trip, then get the Albania eSIM package, which covers the entire territory of Albania with fast 4G — and in some areas, 5G — internet. These services can also be used in other countries.

If Spain is on your travel list this season — whether for work, health reasons, visits to ancient cultural sites, or leisure on the Spanish coast with family or friends — you can get the Spain eSIM package, which covers the entire country with fast internet.

Or if your next destination is outside of Europe and you’re planning a trip to the United States — for business, health reasons, family visits, or even the beach — get the USA eSIM package, which covers all 50 states with high-speed internet, drastically improving your experience.”

“There’s one day left to reserve tickets — the deadline is May 30 — since the booking process began on May 15. Unlike other matches, this time we’ve had over 200,000 ticket requests, while the stadium capacity is only 22,000 seats. To enter the stadium, fans will need to have an ID card that matches the name on the ticket — otherwise, they will not be allowed in,” said Ilir Shulku, FSHF Secretary General.

Have there been any extra security measures by the police and have you had any communication with them?
Shulku: “Yes, we’ve had several meetings with police officials — the most recent one was just yesterday. This match is considered high-risk, and this time, police will implement very strict measures, including multiple security checkpoints.”

From a sporting perspective, how do you view this match in terms of pressure and expectations?
Shulku: “Sometimes the pressure can go too far and that’s not helpful, but our players are active in top European clubs, and of course I’m optimistic. I believe we have every chance to win.”

Albania has played two matches so far in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign — against England and Andorra — earning 3 points and ranking second behind the Three Lions in Group K. Serbia will play its first match of the qualifiers against Albania on June 7.