Albanian Soccer Federation Renews Sylvinho's Contract for World Cup Quest

The Albanian soccer federation extended head coach Sylvinho's contract until December 2025. Sylvinho, who led Albania to the Euro 2024 finals, aims to qualify the team for the 2025 Nations League and the 2026 World Cup. This would mark Albania's first-ever World Cup appearance.

The Albanian soccer federation renewed its contract with Brazilian head coach Sylvinho on Wednesday, with ambitions of making history by qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Sylvinho, appointed in January 2023, guided the team to the Euro 2024 finals, though they earned just one point in a challenging group featuring Italy, Croatia, and Spain. This marked Albania's second appearance at a major tournament, following their Euro 2016 participation under Italian coach Gianni de Biasi.

The new contract extends Sylvinho's tenure until December 2025, encompassing the Nations League and World Cup qualifying stages. The federation emphasized its goal of a historic World Cup qualification in 2026, following their success in topping a difficult Euro 2024 qualifying group that included Poland and the Czech Republic. A former player for Brazil, Barcelona, Arsenal, and Manchester City, Sylvinho's coaching resume includes stints with Lyon, Corinthians, and roles as an assistant at Brazil and Inter Milan.

(With inputs from agencies.)