Kosovo vs Slovenia Match Preview Prediction Team News and Lineups
Unveiling European Football Drama: Kosovo vs Slovenia in World Cup Qualifiers
Kosovo Aims for Another Upset in World Cup Qualifiers
As the Kosovo national team gears up to face Slovenia in a high-stakes World Cup Qualifier this Friday night, the anticipation is palpable. After their shocking 2-0 victory over Sweden, Kosovo hopes to continue their remarkable World Cup journey on home soil.
From Underdogs to Contenders: Kosovo’s Rise in Global Football
Less than a decade ago, Kosovo was ranked 165th by FIFA. Fast forward, and the team now stands proudly at 91st, having enjoyed a successful 2025 that included UEFA Nations League promotion. Currently second in their qualifying group, Kosovo has maintained strong momentum, only losing two of their last 11 games.
In these matches, they scored a commendable 26 goals, besting teams like Iceland, Lithuania, and Cyprus. Their recent form sets the stage for a riveting match against Slovenia, who is yet to find their rhythm.
Slovenia’s Struggles: A Bumpy Start to the Qualifiers
Slovenia’s campaign began with a challenging 2-2 draw against Sweden, followed by a 3-0 defeat to Switzerland. Their lone fortunate escape came from a last-minute equalizer by Zan Vipotnik in the match against Sweden. Since 2024, Slovenia has managed just three competitive victories.
Despite previously defeating Kosovo twice, the Slovenian side will face a transformed opponent, promising an intense contest this time around.
Key Team News and Lineups
For Kosovo, the absence of Florian Haxha due to health issues presents a lineup challenge. Vedat Muriqi, Kosovo’s all-time top scorer, is expected to be a key figure in the attack, with Mergim Vojvoda aiming to fortify the defense.
Slovenia, lacking Miha Zajc due to his retirement from international play, will rely heavily on key players like Jan Oblak of Atletico Madrid, Jaka Bijol of Leeds United, and Manchester United’s Benjamin Sesko.
| Kosovo Possible Starting Lineup | Slovenia Possible Starting Lineup |
|---|---|
| Muric; Gallapeni, Aliti, Dellova, Krasniqi, Vojvoda; Muslija, Rexhbecaj, Avdullahu; Rrahmani, Muriqi | Oblak; Janza, Bijol, Drkusic, Karnicnik; Lovric, Elsnik, Gnezda Cerin, Stojanovic; Vipotnik, Sesko |
Predictions and Expectations
While Slovenia possesses notable talent, their current form leaves room for Kosovo to exploit weaknesses. Emegypt’s prediction for the match is a 2-1 victory for Kosovo, as they aim to secure an unprecedented second consecutive group win.
