Albania was defeated 1-0 by Ukraine in a "desperate" friendly match, following their elimination from the World Cup playoffs against Poland. The match played in Valencia was dominated by the Ukrainian team, with many consecutive chances. The only goal of the match was scored by Hutsuliak at the start of the second half. Sylvinho chose to avoid experiments in this match, with rotations only coming in the second half. Thus, Albania ends its March campaign with disappointment, after being eliminated from the World Cup playoffs.