Albania vs Israel — International Friendlies

**Albania 0-1 Israel**

**Playing Style:** Albania dominated possession and created more opportunities in the final third, with 59% ball possession and 658 passes compared to Israel’s 465. They had more shots (13 vs 11) and more shots from inside the box (7 vs 7), suggesting a more forward-oriented approach. Israel, on the other hand, focused on efficiency, with more shots on target (3 vs 0) and a higher shot on target percentage (27 vs 0.00). Their pressing and defensive actions (66 vs 32) indicate a more compact and aggressive defensive structure.

**Strengths and Weaknesses:** Albania’s strengths include superior ball control, with more passes, accurate passing (90% vs 88%), and a higher presence in the opponent’s half (47 vs 25). They also had more successful long balls (41 vs 10) and aerial duels won (7 vs 4). However, their weakness was poor finishing, with zero shots on target and no big chances converted (0/1). Their shots were also more frequently blocked by the opponent (6 vs 1), indicating that their attempts were less effective.

Israel’s strengths were their efficiency in front of goal, with more shots on target and a higher shot on target percentage. They also had more successful dribbles (6 vs 5) and defensive actions (66 vs 32), showing a strong pressing and defensive identity. Their weakness was limited ball possession (41%) and fewer passes (465 vs 658), which suggests they struggled to maintain control of the game.

**Conclusion:** Despite Albania’s dominance in possession and volume of shots, Israel’s efficiency in front of goal was the deciding factor. Israel had more shots on target and a higher shot on target percentage, which led to the only goal of the match. Albania created more chances overall but failed to convert any of their big chances (0/1), while Israel, despite fewer total shots, was more clinical. The final score (0-1) reflects Israel’s better finishing and defensive organization, even though Albania had more control of the game.