Albania secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Latvia in World Cup qualifying on 9 September, with the home side's superior efficiency proving decisive in a closely contested encounter. Despite registering only three shots on target from 13 attempts, Albania generated 1.67 expected goals and converted one of their chances, whilst Latvia created a comparable 1.65 xG from ten shots but managed just two efforts on target. Albania's 4-2-3-1 formation proved more effective than Latvia's defensive 5-4-1 setup, with the hosts' goalkeeper making crucial saves at a 66.67 per cent rate to preserve the clean sheet. The match was tightly balanced in terms of underlying quality, with both teams generating nearly identical expected goal tallies, yet Albania's clinical finishing in front of goal separated the sides. Referee Damian Sylwestrzak oversaw proceedings without significant controversy. This victory strengthens Albania's qualification campaign prospects considerably.