Spirits high in Albania despite Ireland's wake-up call

Local cultures and customs decree early prayers abound from the local mosque in Shkodër but the Irish guests aren’t complaining.

RISE AND SHINE: Republic of Ireland's Erin McLaughlin in Shkoder during some down time ahead of her side's UEFA Women's Nations League B1 match against Albania on Tuesday. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Ireland launched an early raid on topping their maiden Women’s Nations League group so they didn’t mind a dawn awakening on their first overnight in Albania.

Local cultures and customs decree early prayers abound from the local mosque in Shkodër but in contrast to a Hungarian squad who visited in September, the Irish guests aren’t complaining.