Wales focus on Albania as Grainger reunion looms
Wales resume their attempt to reach a first Women's World Cup this week as they face Albania in their play-off semi-final. The contest carries particular intrigue given that their former manager Gemma Grainger, now in charge of Norway, could stand between them and qualification if both sides win through to December's two-legged final.
Wales are firm favourites for their tie against Albania, who are ranked 67th in the world compared to Wales' 31st, and have beaten them twice during qualifying (4-0 at home and 1-0 away). The first leg takes place in Shkoder on Friday, with the return leg in Llanelli four days later, though key midfielder Ceri Holland has been ruled out through injury. If Wales progress, they would face Norway in the December final, marking a reunion with Grainger, who came closer than any predecessor to achieving World Cup qualification during her time as Wales manager.
- Wales face Albania in their 2027 World Cup play-off semi-final
- Could reunite with Grainger's Norway in December if both win
- Wales unbeaten in eight matches, ranked well above opponents
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Wales are competing in a Women's World Cup play-off to try to reach the finals tournament for the first time in their history. They face Albania in a semi-final, with the first match in Albania on Friday and the return leg in Wales on Tuesday.
Wales are the stronger team on paper: they are ranked 31st in the world compared to Albania's 67th, and have beaten Albania twice during qualifying. However, the tie gains wider interest because of Gemma Grainger, Wales's former manager who now manages Norway. Should both teams win their semi-finals, Wales and Norway would meet in December's two-legged final.
Reaching a World Cup finals would mark a watershed moment for Welsh women's football. The play-off format means Wales must first defeat Albania before any potential reunion with Grainger can take place.