Kosovo opened its 2026/27 UEFA Nations League campaign with a 1–0 victory over the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, with Vedat Muriqi scoring the decisive goal late in the second half.
Kosovo dominated much of the opening half and created several clear opportunities. Muriqi came close to opening the scoring, but Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher produced an excellent save to deny the Kosovo striker.
Kosovo also saw another promising effort cleared off the line by Ireland defender John Egan as the home side continued to threaten.
The tempo dropped somewhat after the break, but Kosovo remained the more attacking side and continued searching for the breakthrough.
The decisive moment came in the 84th minute, when Muriqi met a cross from the wing and headed the ball into the net from close range to give Kosovo a 1–0 lead.
Just two minutes later, Muriqi turned provider, setting up Ermal Krasniqi with an opportunity to double the advantage. Krasniqi, however, was unable to convert the chance.
Kosovo managed to protect its lead during the closing stages and secured three points in its opening Group B3 fixture.
The victory gives Kosovo an ideal start to its Nations League campaign, while Muriqi once again proved decisive for the national team with his late winning goal.
