THE mysterious phenomenon known as the Albanian football team moves into the cold - probably half empty auditorium called Windsor Park this afternoon - which is an achievement in itself. A couple of weeks ago, this fixture looked in doubt after FIFA vetoed the Albanian Football Association's participation in World Cup Group Nine because of "political interference" from the Albanian government.

Apparently, the Albanian regime, came up with the notion that because their FA had not held elections for some time, the FA had abused its authority.

The Albanian FA was promptly dissolved and replaced. However, once FIFA, that other bastion of democracy, heard, of this, they came riding to the rescue of the original members who were just as promptly reinstated, having given the guarantee of an election in February.

Thus today's game goes ahead, although to add intrigue, the general secretary of the Albanian FA, Eduard Dervishi, has not made it to Belfast. Then again, some of the squad haven't either. Two from Greek club Kalamata are stuck behind a lorryload of olives in a road block outside Athens, while mid fielder Sokol Prenga refused to travel because he says he has not been paid for the 1-1 draw with Armenia last month.

Astrit Hafizi, the Albanian manager appointed after the 3-0 defeat by Portugal in the opening game, may therefore feel the need for a dose of sympathy from his opposite number.