In preparation for Euro 2016, which begins in France on June 10, Albania played the first of two friendlies. Colorado Rapids midfielder Shkelzen Gashi started the game and played the first 45 minutes, but did not get on the score sheet for his national team. Albania defeated Qatar 3-1, as Arlind Ajeti, Ermir Lenjani, and Armando Sadiku were the scorers.
Albania faces off again in a friendly against Ukraine this Friday, June 3, before beginning the Group Stage in Euro 2016. Ukraine are ranked 22nd in the latest FIFA ranking, while Albania is ranked 45th.