Skënderbeu today needs nothing less than three points, and this is well understood not only by the fans and players on the field but also by the club’s leadership, headed by President Ardjan Takaj. Before the match, Takaj is expected to give his team a firm ultimatum.
The patience of everyone at Skënderbeu has reached its limits, as the team has gone more than one phase—a total of nine consecutive matches—without a victory. Takaj, along with other club officials, has traveled to the southeastern city, signaling that nothing less than a win will be acceptable today, even though they face Elbasani.
In the hours leading up to the game, Takaj plans to hold a final meeting with the players and coaching staff to deliver his final instructions and make it clear that they need to give their all on the field.
Aside from Skënderbeu’s immense desire for a win, today’s match will feature a tense tactical battle on the sidelines. Ernest Gjoka, the current head coach, goes head-to-head with Ivan Gvozdenović. Just a few weeks ago, Gjoka replaced Gvozdenović, and today the Serbian coach returns “home,” confident that he knows Skënderbeu’s weaknesses. However, Gjoka will likely try to outsmart Gvozdenović by adjusting the team’s setup and avoiding predictable tactics.
In terms of Skënderbeu’s lineup, some changes are expected. Elvis Prençi and Albi Doka are available, but Mario Rabiu will be absent due to accumulating four yellow cards.
In short, Skënderbeu aims to close out 2024 with a crucial three-point victory, allowing them to head into 2025 with renewed confidence.
Good luck, and go, “wolves”!
CREATED by:
“KORÇA BOOM”