Ismajli: “The result could have been bigger; Finland must not be underestimated”

Albania defender Ardian Ismajli spoke to FSHF.TV after the 2-0 victory over Belarus in the Nations League opener. The defender says the result could have been even bigger and that the objective is first place in the group, but the team must show it on the pitch.

“At the start we had some difficulties because we didn’t expect Belarus to press like that. We waited for them a bit deeper, but we got through it and, from their pressing, we took control of the match. We won the game deservedly. The result could have been even bigger, but the important thing is that we took three points and started on the right foot. There’s no problem at all, because especially those of us who play in Italy have several systems, both with 3 and with 4 defenders. We’ve always played and we adapt directly. We have players who can play in two formations. This has given the coach the opportunity to make this choice in these qualifiers. In my opinion, and the boys’, first place is an obligation for us. Finland must not be underestimated. They have some very good players and we will have to show ourselves on the pitch to take first place, which makes the road to the Euros easier,” Ismajli said.