Kosovo’s dream of reaching the 2026 World Cup is still alive, even though direct qualification was not achieved. The next decisive challenge comes against Slovakia in the play-off round.
Franco Foda, the head coach of Kosovo’s national team, has expressed optimism ahead of this crucial encounter, where Kosovo will play as guests in Bratislava.
Speaking for the official FFK page, Foda emphasized that Slovakia is a strong opponent a team that even defeated Germany 2–0 at home. But despite the difficulty, he believes Kosovo is now in a very different mental and competitive state.
Foda highlighted the team’s recent impressive results: victories away in Sweden, Slovenia, and Iceland results that have boosted morale and strengthened the players’ confidence.
According to him, this makes the upcoming match “very balanced.”
He stressed that the full focus right now is on Slovakia. If Kosovo wins, the final play-off match — potentially held in Prishtina — could decide everything.
“The most important match is the first one in Slovakia. If we win, then we have a home match where everything can be decided,” Foda stated.
Kosovo faces Slovakia on 26 November, while the decisive final — if Kosovo advances — is scheduled for 31 December.
