Kosovo’s journey towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached a historic milestone, almost ten years after being admitted to FIFA. When the team began the qualification campaign in September 2025, it had only one victory in its entire history of World Cup qualifiers, and a heavy opening defeat against Switzerland had many fearing another failure.
However, in a dramatic turnaround, Kosovo has since recorded three wins and two draws, securing a playoff spot and putting the team just one step away from its first-ever World Cup appearance. To achieve this, Kosovo must win two playoff matches in March 2026, starting with a semi-final against Slovakia and potentially a final against the winner of Turkey vs. Romania.
Sports analyst and University of Prishtina professor Malsor Gjonbalaj described Kosovo’s potential qualification as “an impressive achievement and the best representation of the country on the international stage,” highlighting the global attention football brings and how participation in the World Cup would elevate Kosovo’s recognition worldwide.
Kosovo’s revival began after coach Franco Foda adjusted tactics following the initial defeat to Switzerland. Shifting from a 4-3-3 offensive formation to a 4-4-2 defensive setup, Kosovo secured its first group win against Sweden (2-0). The team then remained disciplined and consistent, beating Sweden (1-0) and Slovenia (2-0), and drawing 1-1 with Switzerland to finish second in Group B with 11 points, enough to reach the playoffs.
The success has been attributed to Foda’s tactical discipline, the integration of talented new midfielders such as Elvis Rexhbeçaj, Leon Avdullahu, and Veldin Hoxha, and standout performances from players like Florent Muslija. Defensive reinforcements, including Albian Hajdari and Dion Gallapeni, have also contributed significantly, while strategic decisions, like excluding star winger Edon Zhegova from the starting lineup, have proven effective.
Kosovo’s improved form is also partly due to the relative struggles of other Group B teams, with only Kosovo and Switzerland achieving victories, while Sweden and Slovenia drew several matches.
Looking ahead, the team will face Slovakia in Bratislava on March 26, 2026, with hopes of progressing to a home final in Prishtina on March 31, 2026, against the winner of Turkey vs. Romania. While Gjonbalaj sees a strong chance against Slovakia, he notes that a final against Turkey would be particularly challenging, despite the home advantage.
