World Cup Qualification: England vs. Albania Picks — Tuchel to Enjoy Dream Start at Wembley (Mar 21)

A new era for England gets underway at Wembley Stadium on March 21, 2025, as Thomas Tuchel leads the Three Lions into battle for the first time since replacing Gareth Southgate.

Tuchel will have a huge job on his hands, as England are already among the market leaders to win the World Cup in North America next summer. Therefore, only a winning start against Albania will keep hopes high of the Three Lions winning a first major honor since 1966 this week.

Odds

England Holds H2H Advantage

England holds the upper-hand based on previous meetings between the nations.

Both previous encounters since 2021 came in the qualification campaign for the previous World Cup, with England winning 5-0 at Wembley and claiming a 2-0 success on the road.

England Team News

Tuchel raised eyebrows with the inclusion of Jordan Henderson in his first squad, while Marcus Rashford has been recalled after impressing for Aston Villa.

International debuts could be handed to Dan Burn, Jarrell Quansah, and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Possible Lineup

J. Pickford (GK); K. Walker, M. Guehi, D. Burn, L. Colwill, D. Rice, C. Jones, M. Rogers, J. Bellingham, M. Rashford, H. Kane

Albania Team News

A number of players that play their trade in Europe could feature at Wembley on Friday, with Rangers star Nedim Bajrami expected to feature.

Armando Broja is also named in the squad. Senior international debuts could be handed out to Adrion Pajaziti and Juljan Shehu.

Possible Lineup

T. Strakosha (GK); I. Balliu, A. Ismajlli, A. Ajeti, M. Mitaj, Q. Laci, Y. Ramadani, K. Asllani, J. Asani, M. Daku, E. Muci

England vs. Albania Picks

Tuchel will be committed to get off to a bright start in the England dugout this weekend, and there should be few issues for the Three Lions to overcome.

England’s attacking players should have the ability to break through at ease this weekend, and we comfortably expect the hosts to cover the spread against Albania.