Where to Watch England v Albania: A Comprehensive Guide to Commentators and Channels

As England kicks off their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign against Albania on March 21, 2025, at Wembley Stadium, football fans across the UK and beyond are eager to catch the action live. The match, scheduled for 19:45 UK time, will be broadcast on several prominent channels, including ITV1 and ITVX for streaming. Meanwhile, BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds will provide extensive audio coverage.

On ITV1, the match will be presented by Mark Pougatch, with Sam Matterface serving as the main commentator alongside co-commentator Lee Dixon. Pundits Ian Wright and Roy Keane will offer their expert analysis, while Gabriel Clarke will be on reporting duties. This lineup promises to deliver a comprehensive and engaging viewing experience for fans.

Mark Pougatch is a seasoned presenter known for his work on ITV's football coverage, including the Champions League and international matches. Sam Matterface is a well-respected commentator with extensive experience in covering major football events. Lee Dixon, a former Arsenal defender, brings his tactical insights as a co-commentator. Ian Wright, a former England striker, and Roy Keane, the ex-Manchester United captain, are renowned for their candid and insightful analysis.

For those preferring radio coverage, BBC Radio 5 Live will have Mark Chapman as the presenter, with John Murray and Ian Dennis sharing main commentary duties. Matthew Upson and Leon Osman will provide co-commentary, offering their expertise on the game. This team is well-versed in delivering high-quality live commentary, ensuring listeners are fully immersed in the action.

Mark Chapman is a versatile presenter who has covered a wide range of sports for the BBC, including football, rugby, and cricket. John Murray and Ian Dennis are both experienced commentators with a strong background in football broadcasting. Matthew Upson, a former England defender, and Leon Osman, a former Everton midfielder, bring valuable on-field experience to their commentary roles.

Additionally, fans can tune into talkSPORT for live commentary, presented by Adrian Durham, with Jim Proudfoot as the main commentator. Stuart Pearce and Darren Bent will provide co-commentary, offering their unique perspectives on the game. Adrian Durham is known for his engaging style, while Jim Proudfoot is a seasoned commentator. Stuart Pearce, a former England player and manager, and Darren Bent, a former Premier League striker, add depth to the commentary with their insights.

For viewers in Scotland, STV will also broadcast the match with the same ITV commentary team. The STV Player will offer streaming options for those who prefer to watch online.

England, under new manager Thomas Tuchel, is looking to make a strong start in their qualifying campaign. Tuchel, known for his tactical acumen and ability to motivate players, has been tasked with leading England to success in the 2026 World Cup. His first squad includes notable call-ups like Dan Burn and Myles Lewis-Skelly, alongside established players such as Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.

Thomas Tuchel is a highly respected manager with a successful track record in club football, having managed Chelsea and Bayern Munich. His appointment as England manager marks a new era for the national team, with fans eager to see his impact on the team's performance.

England's history against Albania is favorable, with the Three Lions having won all six previous encounters. Their most recent meeting ended in a 5-0 victory for England in November 2021. Albania, however, will be looking to cause an upset and secure their first competitive win against a top-ranked team.

For more information on Thomas Tuchel's managerial career, you can visit Wikipedia. To learn more about England's World Cup qualifying campaign, check out the England Football Association website. For details on ITV's football coverage, including their broadcasting rights, visit the ITV News section.

In conclusion, the England v Albania match promises to be an exciting encounter, with top-notch commentary and analysis available across various platforms. Whether you're watching on ITV1, listening on BBC Radio 5 Live, or streaming via ITVX, you'll be well-covered to enjoy the action and insights from some of the best in the business.