The dream fades, Kosovo's elimination with honor

Ademi: Always proud of the Dardanian gladiators

The President of the Football Federation, Agim Ademi, has reacted after Kosovo's 1:0 loss to Turkey in the final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff.

He has said that he is "always proud of the Dardanian gladiators."

"Not every evening brings the result we want, but every challenge makes us stronger. Tonight, our boys gave their best on the field, with pride and dedication to the jersey that represents an entire nation. Luck was not on our side and, although we did not deserve such a result, we must accept that even losses are part of this journey. However, they do not diminish our work or our faith in this team. I am convinced that the Dardanian Gladiators will return stronger, with more determination and with the same fighting spirit that has brought us this far. Thank you to the "Dardanët" fans, all citizens of the Republic of Kosovo, as well as our brothers from Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro and the Presheva Valley, but also our compatriots wherever they live and work, for your continued support. This loss hurts, but we stand with our heads held high for everything we have achieved. The future will bring us many more joys. Together we move forward!", Ademi writes on social media social.

Akturkoglu: We dreamed of this moment

Photo: Driton Pacharada

Kerem Akturkoglu has expressed his happiness after securing the World Cup with Turkey.

"It's been 24 years. We've always dreamed of moments like this. Most of us don't remember 2002. Now we're going to make the dream of the youngest come true by playing in the World Cup."

"The World Cup is everyone's dream. Even when you dream of becoming a footballer, you dream of playing in the World Cup. We have to keep our feet on the ground. I hope we will be successful. We will go there to be successful," said Akturkoglu, who scored the only goal.

Foda: The team represented Kosovo in the best way

Photo: Driton Pacharada

Kosovo's football coach, Franco Foda, said that everyone is upset after the defeat against Turkey, but stressed that they gave their best. 

"Today we are all upset. We tried and wanted to qualify for the World Cup. It was possible against Turkey for 90 minutes and I am proud of the team. I think the whole team has represented Kosovo in the best possible way. This is how we will move forward," Foda initially stated. 

Foda emphasized that they wanted to please the people who were very enthusiastic, but now they will look to the future. 

"I want to take this opportunity to thank all the fans who were in the stadium and visited other countries when we were guests. The most important thing is what I told the team, everyone who follows Kosovo, to feel this on the field and see that they give their soul on the field," declared Foda. 

Foda confirmed that he will remain in Kosovo for a while. 

"The goal was to qualify for the World Cup, but let's see now about my future. We were one game away from the World Cup, the team is developing well. I have been waiting for the work and the effort is rewarded. This has happened with the team. I have no plans to leave Kosovo because I like the country and the people," Foda declared.
 

Muriqi: Fate didn't want us to be in America

Photo: Driton Pacharada

Kosovo striker Vedat Muriqi said that fate did not allow them to qualify for the World Cup.

Kosovo was eliminated after a narrow defeat to Turkey in Pristina.

"Very difficult. We have fought from day one until now. We started the campaign with a heavy loss and we thought there was no turning back. But we continued well. I am very proud of my teammates. I am very proud to be among the captains. I would have liked to lead the team in America, but fate did not want it. I do not know if I will be, but Kosovo will qualify for a major championship. We have had many opportunities. I feel sorry for the whole team, the whole country. All this support...", declared Muriqi.

Erdogan reacts after Turkey's World Cup qualification

Photo: Associated Press

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reacted after Turkey qualified for the World Cup, defeating Kosovo in the playoff final.

In a congratulatory message, Erdogan congratulated the Turkish national team on their success and return to the World Cup after 24 years.

"I wholeheartedly congratulate our national football team, our boys, for the victory over Kosovo in the playoff final and qualification for the World Cup. I wish the national team, which will wave our star and crescent flag on this biggest football stage after 24 years, success in the group matches against Australia, Paraguay and the USA," his message reads.

He added that he has full confidence that Turkish footballers will make the nation proud at the World Cup as well.

"We have full confidence that our boys, as always, will wear the star and crescent jersey from victory to victory and make our nation proud. I kiss all our athletes on the forehead," Erdogan concluded.

Kosovo is attacking, Asllani is the case

Photo: Driton Pacharada

Kosovo's footballers are continuing their search for the equalizer.

Fisnik Asllani shot from outside the area in the 87th minute, but his shot was stopped by the Turkish goalkeeper. Kosovo is losing 1:0. 
 

Muslija shoots near the goal.

Florent Muslija had an ideal chance to equalize in the 81st minute. 

His shot from distance ended up just wide of the goal. Turkey is leading 1:0 against Kosovo. 
 

Zhegrova joins the team

Kosovo coach Franco Foda made the first substitution. Edon Zhegrova came on for Mërgim Vojvoda in the 71st minute.

Turkey in the lead

Turkey has taken a 1:0 lead over Kosovo.

Kerem Akturkoglu scored in the 53rd minute.

Many chances, but no goals in the first half – tension at the end

Photo: Driton Pacharada

The first half of the Kosovo - Turkey match ended goalless.

The match was mostly open, with both teams having good scoring opportunities. However, no goals were scored.

Fisnik Asllani hit the post, but the Turks were also dangerous on several occasions. The atmosphere in the stadium is excellent, despite the rain and low temperatures.

In the end, there were also tensions on the field between the players.

Asllani hits the post.

Photo: Driton Pacharada

Kosovo is getting closer to scoring in the match against Turkey.

Fisnik Asllani hit the crossbar in the 29th minute with a shot from distance.

The ball was deflected.

Kosovo increases pressure

Kosovo is increasing the pressure on the Turkish goal.

Vedat Muriqi and the others fought in the area in the 26th minute, but without any concrete results.

Kosovo gives signals after Turkey's good start

After the best start from Turkey, Kosovo has begun to react. 

After the 20th minute, Veldin Hoxha and Fisnik Asllani were in a good position.

The score remains 0:0.

Yildiz on a note

Kenan Yildiz had a chance to score for Turkey in the 10th minute. 

His shot from inside the area was deflected out of the goal by the Kosovo defense. The score remains 0:0. 
 

Turkish footballer: Fireworks motivated us, they don't recognize the Turkish nation

Turkey footballer Irfan Can Kahveci has spoken about the fireworks set off near the team's hotel in Pristina during the early hours of Tuesday, saying that they did not negatively affect the team, but rather motivated them more.

"It didn't affect us much. We expected such things. Our team is a good, quality team. They thought they could overthrow the Turkish nation, but this only motivated us more. They don't know or understand the Turkish nation," Kahveci told Hurriyet.

The Turkish midfielder stressed that the team's goal is clear - victory and a return to the biggest stage of world football.

"We hope we will win and end the years of misery," he added.

Speaking about Turkey's long absence from the World Cup, Kahveci said that for some players this has been a dream since childhood.

"Some of us weren't even born when we were last there, for some it was a childhood dream. I think we can achieve this with this team. I'm proud of this team and I love everyone very much," he concluded.

The match between Kosovo and Turkey is expected to start at 20:45. Kahveci is on the bench.

Official lineups: Kosovo - Turkey

The official lineups for the playoff final between Kosovo and Turkey, which kicks off at 20:45, have been published.

Kosovo coach Franco Foda has not made any changes to the squad that won in Slovakia on Thursday.

Kosovo formation:

Muriq: Vojvoda, Dellova, Hajrizi, Hajdari, Gallapeni: Hoxhaa, Muslija, Rexhbeçaj: Asllani, Muriqi.

Reservists

Bekaj, Shaipi, Hadërgjonaj, Aliti, I. Krasniqi, Rashica, Rrahmani, Zhegrova, Berisha, E. Krasniqi, Emërllahu, Zabergja

Meanwhile, Turkey's Vincenzo Montella has made three changes, even changing the playing style. Zelik Çelik will play in place of Mert Muldur, Ozan Kabak replaces Samet Akaydin, while Galatasaray's Baris Alper Yilmaz remains on the bench. Orkun Kokçu plays in his place.

Turkey's lineup:

Ugurcan: Çelik, Kabak, Bardakci, Kadioglu: Yuksek, Calhanoglu, Kokçu: Yildiz, Guler Akturoglu.

Reservists

Gunok, Bayındır, Elmali, Akaydın, Ozcan, Baris Yilmaz, Gul, Irfan Can Kahveci, Muldur, Karazor, Akgun, Kaan Ayhan

1993 – the year the story began

It is not recorded in all countries. But the match played on February 14, 1993 marks the beginning of the Kosovo national football team's journey.

Kosovo on Tuesday night reached its highest point yet. The amazing journey began on a Sunday afternoon at the Dinamo stadium in Tirana. 

Albania and Kosovo faced off, the two teams that represented and still represent Albanians. 
Albania, which was playing a competitive match, won 3:1. But the victory was also for Kosovo. Independent football was already developing in Kosovo. It was played in the meadows, but the ball did not stop rolling. In addition to the championship competition, the commitment was to present the country, albeit under occupation. And who else but Albania would offer the opportunity for the first match?

"The day the loss was celebrated" was the title of a short text in the daily "Bujku" on February 16, 1993. 

"The long-standing wish of Albanian sports fans was fulfilled: yesterday afternoon at the Dinamo stadium in Tirana, the selected football teams met, namely the representative teams of the Republic of Albania and the Republic of Kosovo. In a fraternal and quite imposing atmosphere, the importance of this meeting overshadowed the result. Therefore, the deserved victory of the selected ones of the Republic of Albania with a score of 3:1, was a moment for Kosovars to celebrate as well, since with this meeting a new era of national sports begins," wrote "Bujku", which was also published during the occupation.
According to the time report, Kosovo was tied on the field only in the first 20 minutes. Kushtrim Munishi, the famous former striker, had scored the only goal for Kosovo.

According to “Sporti Shqiptar”, there were about 3000 spectators in the stadium. “Albania National Team – Republic of Kosovo 3-1” was the headline of the article in the newspaper “Sporti Shqiptar”.

There were calls for "Kosovo - Kosovo", but also calls for Albania.

"The match was for us, until we conceded the goal. That cannot be denied. A mistake, as is generally the case in football, and we made it," declared Ajet Shosholli, Kosovo's first selector.
He also spoke about the challenges that Kosovo football was facing at the time. 

Just three days later, Albania played a qualifying match for the 1994 World Cup. At "Qemal Stafa", they lost 2:1 to Northern Ireland.

A few days later, Kosovo played a match against Albpetrol of Patos, an Albanian team. After that, they had several matches, mainly exhibition and humanitarian.

Another worthy match was on September 7, 2002, again against Albania in Prishtina. The stadium, now named "Fadil Vokrri", was packed with spectators. 

Kosovo played friendly matches, but they were not recognized by FIFA, until 2013. In early 2014, FIFA gave Kosovo permission to play friendly matches. In 2016, Kosovo was admitted to UEFA and FIFA and in September of that year it began playing competitive matches. It has already had several qualifying cycles for the World Cup and the European Championship and several campaigns in the Nations League.

And it all started in 1993, not 2014, as is often portrayed. Nearly two decades and thousands of footballers who contributed cannot be forgotten.

How much money will Kosovo earn if it qualifies for the World Cup?

The World Cup qualification playoff is also of great importance from a financial perspective.

If Kosovo qualifies for the World Cup, the FFK will be rewarded by FIFA with a full 9 million euros.

FIFA allocates 1,3 million euros to federations to cover logistics costs at the World Cup in the USA.

Meanwhile, qualifying for the World Cup is rewarded with another 9 million euros. So, guaranteed for each federation that has a qualified representative is 9 million euros. 

Meanwhile, success in the World Cup brings additional millions in revenue.

Kosovo is in the playoff final. They play Turkey tonight at 20:45 in Pristina.

Mushica: Qualification would be like a "second independence"

Former Kosovo national team goalkeeper, Kushtrim Mushica, has said that Kosovo's potential qualification for the World Cup tonight would have historical value, comparing it to a "second Independence".

Mushica was in the Kosovo team when it played its first official matches, against Haiti and Turkey. He recalled this time, emphasizing the great emotions of that period and the historical importance that those matches had for Kosovo football. He expressed gratitude to Turkey for agreeing to play Kosovo at that time, emphasizing that the result was not primary, but the very fact that Kosovo was entering the international arena was an important starting point.

"It was a time that was historic at the time. That date continues to remain part of history. We played Haiti and then Turkey. I also remember the great emotions I had. We are grateful to Turkey for agreeing to play with us. The result was not primary. It was the starting point of what we have achieved," he said on KTV's "60 Minutes."

According to him, today's match has a completely different weight, as Kosovo is now almost balanced with its opponents in terms of quality. Mushica emphasized that Kosovo has become an example for many national teams for its rapid journey, adding that the success has come thanks to the talent and combination of players who grew up in Kosovo and those who joined the team from the diaspora.

He added that an eventual qualification could be called "Second Independence", as the atmosphere in the city before the match resembled the Independence Day celebration, with citizens in a cheerful and optimistic mood.

Finally, Mushica also recalled the 90s, when Kosovar footballers withdrew from joint competitions in Yugoslavia and created a parallel league, calling them heroes of that time for their sacrifice and contribution to preserving Kosovar football.

"ESPN" predicts Kosovo as the winner

The well-known American media outlet, "ESPN", has predicted Kosovo to win the final playoff match against Turkey.

"Franco Foda's team is young, bold and full of pace and energy. Kosovo's players have the ability to shock a Turkish team filled with top-level talent, including Arda Guler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Kenan Yildiz. Turkey has won the previous two matches and will be the favorites, but the 'Fadil Vokrri' stadium will be magnificent on Tuesday, and a passionate atmosphere could be in Kosovo's favor. Winner: Kosovo," writes ESPN. 

The match is expected to start at 20:45.

Bunjaku: We won the small final, let's win the big final too

Former Kosovo striker, Albert Bunjaku, expressed his happiness over Kosovo U19's big victory over Turkey U19.

On Monday in Manavgat, Kosovo U19 won 3:1 against Turkey, as part of Group B1 of the first qualifying round for "Euro 2027".

With the victory, Kosovo has secured first place in the group and will play in League A in the second qualifying round.

Bunjaku is the coach of the Kosovo U19 team, while in the past he played for the "Dardan" A team.

In the May 21 friendly at the "Adem Jashari" stadium in Mitrovica against Turkey, Bunjaku scored the only goal in the 6:1 loss.

It was Kosovo's second friendly after permission from FIFA.

"We won the small final. I hope Kosovo wins the big final against Turkey," Bunjaku said for the Kosovo Football Federation.

During the period 2014-2016, Bunjaku played six matches for Kosovo. He scored three goals. He has also played for Switzerland.

Celebration and enthusiasm before the match that secures the World Cup

Photo: Driton Pacharada

Everything is ready for the playoff final between Kosovo and Turkey. The match is of extraordinary importance – it ensures participation in the World Cup. Motivation  in Kosovo it is maximum. Until now the World Cup has seemed a distant dream. Now it is a victory away. The whole country is getting ready for the celebration tonight, although the match is not considered easy at all

Emotions and enthusiasm.

Celebration, songs and cheers. Sleepless nights, accusations and suspicions.

And the moment of truth is approaching.

From 20:45 Kosovo can achieve its greatest success so far - qualifying for the World Cup in football.

The playoff final with Turkey is not just about sports. It is about much more. About promoting the state of Kosovo first and foremost.

Even before the finals have started, there are many articles about Kosovo in the most powerful world media. "The New York Times", "The Guardian", "BBC" and many other large and prestigious world media have written about Kosovo and its representative team.

Kosovo's story is unique. Just reaching the playoff final, the decisive match for World Cup qualification, is an amazing achievement.

But the dream of all Albanians is tonight's victory over Turkey and a place in the World Cup that begins in a few weeks in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

On paper, Turkey is the favorite. For many reasons: experience, the level of football, the level of the players and the clubs where they play.

Such was Slovakia, against which Kosovo won on Thursday. And in the fall, Sweden and Slovenia, against which the "Dardans" also won.

The paper field is very different.

It has to do, among other things, with the motivation of the players. And the motivation of the Kosovo players is maximum. Football has been the number one topic in the country for a long time. The enthusiasm of Monday, throughout the country, has not been seen for a long time.

Consequently, motivation will not be a problem. And when the team is motivated, at its head must be a sharp strategist.

Franco Foda is one such person. The arrival of the German at the helm of Kosovo has raised the national team to a significantly higher level.

The match being played tonight at "Fadil Vokrri" is proof.

Foda has found the right way to play. Meanwhile, most of the players are at the highest level of their careers and ready to take Kosovo to where many countries only dream – to the World Cup in football.

The World Cup is unlike any other event, not just in sports. For a month, all the focus will be on the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Tonight for 90 minutes, and maybe 120 minutes or more, the attention will be on the small stadium in Pristina.

The stadium has a capacity of almost 14 seats, but for the final that secures the World Cup it is too small. Tickets on the black market are sold for hundreds of euros. But even at high prices they are difficult to obtain.

Like any final, this one won't be easy. Turkey, who haven't played in the big event since 2002, is also highly motivated.

Turkey will also have support in the stadium, from at least 700 spectators.

Turkish fans have created a festive atmosphere in the squares of Pristina. Of course, so have those from Kosovo.

On the night between Monday and Tuesday, there were fireworks near the hotel where the Turkish players are staying. Two arrests were reported, and the fireworks were set off to keep the visiting players awake. The media in Turkey has reported extensively on this. There have also been unfounded accusations from the Turkish media, some of which seem to be interested in a tense evening.

During the day, however, there were no signs of tension. The atmosphere was relaxed.

And now it's time for the performance on the field. A performance that will hopefully send Kosovo to what has until now seemed like a very, very distant dream – the World Cup.

Security measures increased for Kosovo-Turkey match, temporary road closures warned

Photo: Illustration

The police have announced that increased security measures have been taken to guarantee public order and safety during and after the match between Kosovo and Turkey. 

According to the police announcement, there will be an increased police presence at the stadium, in the city and in three "Fan Zones".

"In order to move the delegations, facilitate traffic and the development of the match, there will be temporary road closures: local and national, as follows: Tring Ismajli, Agim Ramadani, Eqrem Çabej, Semaforat Kvartal, Bulevardi Bill Clinton, Rrethi te Stacioni i Busëve, Rruga Hekurudhat, Rruga Tirana (towards the stadium), while during the departure from the stadium to the airport: Rruga Tirana, Arbëria, rr. Ahmet Krasniqi and Highway (towards the airport). Other roads have temporary restrictions in the perimeter around the stadium, rr. Luan Haradinaj (to the Ministry of Justice) and rr. Fehmi Agani", the announcement states. 

The KP has announced that these blockages will be temporary and will be implemented at intervals, depending on official movements and traffic relief needs.

Citizens are further urged to respect the instructions of police officers on the ground, to use alternative routes when possible, and to contribute to maintaining public order and safety.

The Duke wishes Kosovo success. Maybe today we could be two

The President of the Albanian Football Federation, Armand Duka, has wished success to Kosovo's footballers in the final match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against Turkey.

The match takes place tonight at 20:45 at the "Fadil Vokrri" stadium in Pristina.

"Maybe today we could be two... but even so, we are one. With the pride that Albania gave us and the hope that Kosovo gives us. Strength, our boys!", Duka wrote on social media. Duka posted a photo of the celebration of Kosovo players after the 4:3 victory in the semi-final of this year's World Cup qualifying playoff against Slovakia last Thursday in Bratislava.

The Three Fathers of Kosovo – Zhegrova, Hoxha and Rexhbeçaj

The Kosovo Football Federation has donated a jersey with the names of their sons, Edon Zhegrova, Veldin Hoxha and Elvis Rexhbeçaj.

"Elvis Rexhbeçaj, Veldin Hoxha and Edon Zhegrova now have a new role... off the field! As a special gift, each received a National Team jersey with the name of their little one: Lian, Neyla and Mars. Congratulations on this wonderful chapter of life!", FFK wrote on Tuesday.

The captain, Vedat Muriqi, also appeared in the photo with Zhegrova, Hoxha and Rexhbeçaj.

Captain Amir Rrahmani remembers the legend Fadil Vokrri

Kosovo captain Amir Rrahmani has posted a photo of legend Fadil Vokrri on Instagram.

Behind the back of the legend Vokrri, Rrahman's jersey with the number 13 is seen hanging.

Rrahmani remembers the former FFK president on the most important day of the Kosovo national team.

"Dardans" will play the final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against Turkey tonight at 20:45 PM.

Rrahmani is not playing due to injury. But he came to Pristina to support his teammates.

Police: Security for the match according to UEFA standards

Captain Bajram Shabani, head of the permanent planning and operational coordination sector at the Kosovo Police, stated that the security organization on Tuesday is being carried out in full compliance with UEFA protocols.

According to him, UEFA delegates its security officials for such matches, while the relevant protocols are already being implemented by the Kosovo Police, which is certified for this task.

"UEFA in this case delegates its representatives, its officials for security, who have the UEFA protocol for security, that protocol is now implemented by the Kosovo Police because as I told you before, we are certified for that task. The Kosovo Police and the FFK have intensified contacts, cooperation with UEFA, then we have become familiar with the UEFA regulations for security and for us as Police now this is an extremely great relief because in this regard we are extremely professional", he said on the "tre8tre" show on KTV.

Shabani emphasized that local institutions have gained considerable experience in organizing such events, citing the historic 2014 match at the "Adem Jashari" stadium between Kosovo and Haiti as an important starting point.

Regarding the increase in the number of police officers, Shabani said that the KP has planned a sufficient number and will increase its presence on the ground, in order for fans to enjoy the festive atmosphere without problems.

"The Kosovo Police has planned a sufficient number of police officers. They will increase the number, actions have been taken so that this match passes without any incidents, so that the fans can enjoy the festive atmosphere," he said.

Shabani announced that citizens have been notified that there will be temporary blockages of several road segments due to security measures and the organization of the operation.

Zhegrova kicks off birthday party, dessert after the match

Kosovo superstar, Edon Zhegrova, started his birthday celebration differently today.

On the eve of the historic match with Turkey, he blew out the candles of his 27th birthday along with the Kosovo players, but the real celebration, according to the Kosovo Football Federation, will take place after the match.

"Happy birthday, Edon Zhegrova! The plan was to cut the cake at lunch... but we left it for "dessert" after the match. Because that's when the real party begins!", it says in  post.

And what the birthday wish was, according to the FFK, is easy to guess.

"We're assuming you know what Edon's wish was when he blew out the candles? Simple, but big: the 2026 World Cup," the Federation's post reads.

Kosovo welcomes Turks, party and free coffee in the square

Photo: Driton Pacharada

A festive atmosphere began to reign on Tuesday at noon, with less than eight hours left until the start of the historic Kosovo-Turkey football match.

The "Dardans" host the Turks at "Fadil Vokrri" in the decisive match. The winner goes to the World Cup.

Drums and trumpets accompanied the fans, while the square was also filled with sellers of scarves and jerseys of both teams.

Photos: Driton Pacharada/KOHA

One cafe even offered free coffee to Turkish fans, writing that "the Turks paid for everything with the aid given to Kosovo in 1999."

"Today rivals, but always friends. Free coffee and tea for all Turkish fans. You paid in 1999 - today you have no debt. Thank you," it reads in the middle of the square.

Two suspects arrested for fireworks near hotel where Turkish national team is staying

Two people have been arrested on suspicion of causing general danger in Pristina.

The case concerns fireworks that were set off on Monday evening near the hotel where the Turkish national football team is staying.

Police spokesman, Enis Pllana, told KOMA that the suspects have been detained for 48 hours.

"Two people arrested, the case has been classified as 'Causing general danger.' The suspects have been taken into custody for 48 hours," said Pllana.

Images of these fireworks being lit around 01:00 after midnight have circulated on social media.

Cana considers the match with Turkey as one of the most important days after Independence

Albania's legendary captain, Lorik Cana, has said that the Kosovo representative team has advanced significantly on the field in recent times.

According to him, the match with Turkey in the 2026 World Cup playoff is one of the most important days for Kosovo after the declaration of Independence.

"After the declaration of independence, it could be one of the most affirmative events of the state of Kosovo and the values ​​that the youth have there. Turkey remains the big favorite, it is safe and good from a technical point of view. A country that remains a big favorite, but the focus of the Kosovo team after the Switzerland match has changed something. The Kosovo team has changed not only tactically, a hand and an extraordinary merit for the coach, but something has happened within the team, where they have found strength, self-confidence and a fighting spirit, and from there there has been a kind of change within the Kosovo team. They have made a qualifying phase with Slovenia and Sweden and eliminated a team like Slovakia, which remains a good team. Now the last stage remains and the biggest and most difficult challenge is the last stage," he told "Euronews".

Cana has said that the responsibility of representing the state is incomparable.

"What makes them play well is that they understand what a destiny and responsibility they have to represent their country, it is an extraordinary opportunity. The professionalism part remains key to achievement, to be as prepared as possible, but emotionally, what the team achieved is to become one and gather all the common feeling, but not only for them. Because when you represent your country, it is not something that is compared to clubs, and I believe that these boys have done something extraordinary with their work and that of the coach. But the main merit is of those who play on the green field", said Cana.

Federation calls on fans: Everyone on their feet, let's be the 12th player

The Kosovo Football Federation has called on fans not to sit in the stands during the match against Turkey, in the final of the playoff for qualification for the World Cup.

In a post on Facebook, the FFK said that tonight is a night that will never be repeated.

"Today is not a day to sit in the stadium stands. It is not an evening to watch the match as quiet spectators. Today is the moment when each of us must be on our feet, with our voices at their maximum, with our hearts beating for a single name: Kosovo. We are just one step away from the World Cup. A step that for many has been a distant dream for decades. A chance that can only come once in our lives. And when history knocks on the door, it does not open silently, it opens loudly, with passion, with spirit. The stadium is not a theater. There is no written script, there is no passive audience. There is only one role for everyone: to be the twelfth player. The Dardanians on the field need that impetus that is not measured by statistics, but is felt in every sprint, in every duel, in every kick," the FFK call states.

The FFK has called for respect for the opponent even during the singing of the anthem.

"But as soon as the ball starts rolling, the "Fadil Vokrri" stadium must be transformed into an arena where even today's opponent feels the weight of an entire nation. A place where every meter of the field is also won by the stands. Don't stop the song when we have the ball. Don't stop the atmosphere when they have it. Because the energy created by the stands is more than atmosphere, it is pressure, it is motivation, it is an advantage. A ticket to the World Cup is not just a sporting achievement. It is an opportunity to show Kosovo to the world, to promote our identity, history and pride on the biggest football stage. Tonight, not just one team is playing. Tonight, an entire nation is playing. Believe. Sing. Cheer. Because tonight, history can be written with your voice," the FFK appeal states.

The "Dardans" apologize for not being able to fulfill all ticket requests.

The "Dardanët" fan group has apologized for not being able to respond to all requests for tickets for Kosovo's big match with Turkey.

Kosovo hosts Turkey on Tuesday at the “Fadil Vokrri.” Tickets were sold out quickly, even before it was known that Kosovo would reach the final of the World Cup playoff.

"We deeply regret that we have not been able to respond to all those interested in obtaining tickets for the grand final between Kosovo and Turkey. We sincerely apologize for not being able to fulfill all the countless requests, thousands of them, which exceeded any imaginable expectations. This apology is heartfelt, because we feel sorry for each of you who expressed the desire to be part of this major event for our country, but who, unfortunately, will not be able to be present. However, this is the capacity of the stands sector that we cover; we are unable to expand it or do the impossible. We ask for your understanding and trust that, within our responsibilities, we have done and continue to do our best," the "Dardans" said in a reaction on Tuesday, the day of the match.

"Dardans" have called on fans not to end their mission just by arriving at the stadium.

"Today, we must all feel the responsibility for the success of the match, both in terms of organization and in our unstinting support for our national team. We must motivate and push our players forward towards the ultimate success. Each of us must give more than in previous matches. Each must feel involved and contribute with their capacities to the organization. Each must climb the steps of the stadium with determination and inexhaustible energy. Each must bear the common responsibility to make our dream come true. Each must be active, not passive. And, above all, today everyone must wear the colors of Kosovo: with a scarf, T-shirts or national sweatshirts," the "Dardans" appeal further states.

Writings about anti-Ottoman choreography, the footage is old

KOHA has confirmed that these are footage from the preparation of one of the choreographies by the Mitrovica fan group "Torcida" a long time ago.

"This is too much! Kosovars are preparing anti-Ottoman choreography," is the title of one of the articles in the Turkish media.SonDakika".

This media outlet has called the choreography "scandalous".

However, the footage that was used as a basis, distributed on social networks, is old and has nothing to do with the Kosovo - Turkey match. 

KOHA has confirmed that these are footage from the preparation of one of the choreographies by the Mitrovica fan group "Torcida" a long time ago.

It is a choreography that won the sympathy of many sports fans and also features Isa Boletini and Adem Jashari and the national flag.

It seems that some Turkish media outlets have a tendency to tense the situation before the match.

Turkish media complain about fireworks in front of Turkey hotel

Turkey's footballers didn't have the most peaceful night on the eve of the match against Kosovo.

Fireworks were set off in front of their hotel in Pristina.

Turkish media have published footage of the fireworks display.

"Sondakika" wrote that "this incident has further increased the tension before the match."

Betting companies set odds for Kosovo-Turkey match

Major betting companies have rated Turkey as the favorite to face Kosovo in the final of this year's World Cup qualifying playoff.

The Kosovo-Turkey match takes place tonight at 20:45 in Pristina. 

For an eventual victory, Kosovo has odds of 4.00, while a draw is 3.50, while Turkey's victory is calculated at odds of 2.00.

The quota for Kosovo was even higher the day before.

Are changes expected in Kosovo's lineup?

Kosovo is on a six-match unbeaten streak.

Moreover, it is in the final of the play-offs for qualification to the World Cup. It is the biggest match in history and coach Franco Foda is expected to stick to the fielding that brought this stunning success.

Kosovo tonight against Turkey, at "Fadil Vokrri" starting at 20:45, will play with a 5-3-2 system, which in attack becomes 3-5-2.

The lineup is also not expected to have any changes compared to the 4:3 victory over Slovakia in Bratislava on Thursday.

Aro Muriq will be in goal, and in front of him in defense will be Albian Hajdari, Lumbardh Dellova and Kreshnik Hajrizi.
Mërgim Vojvoda and Dion Gallapeni will be on the wings, while Elvis Rexhbeçaj and Veldin Hoxha will be in the center of the midfield. Florent Muslija will be placed in front of them, while Vedat Muriqi and Fisnik Asllani will be in the attack.
Muriqi will also be the captain.

Turkey, of course, knows how Kosovo plays. But that doesn't mean Foda will change the system. Sweden, Slovenia and Slovakia knew it too.

The world writes about the history that Kosovo can write.

The world's largest media outlets have written about Kosovo on the eve of the historic football match with Turkey.

At 20:45, the "Fadil Vokrri" stadium will be the decisive arena for World Cup qualification. The winning team will go to the USA, Mexico and Canada for the World Cup.

"Kosovo in euphoria dreams of World Cup history," he wrote. BBC.

"Little Kosovo on the verge of World Cup history, before the final qualifying match against Turkey," the agency wrote.Reuters".

Even in Italy they have written about the small country that dreams of the World Cup. "Kosovo for history, the small country dreams of the World Cup: from Muric to Zhegrova, how much Italy," he wrote.Corriere della Sport".

"The Guardian" wrote that "anything is possible for Kosovo."
Meanwhile, the title of a comment by Alex Torres for the Spanish media outlet "AS" is: "The match that Fadil Vokrri should have watched."

According to the author, nothing Kosovo has achieved would have been possible without the former president of the federation, the legendary Vokrri. Torres wrote about his personal experience with the late Vokrri, his plans and goals.

"Tomorrow Kosovo faces Turkey knowing that victory will secure their place in the World Cup. They will play in the stadium that bears the name of Fadil Vokrri. It is sad and unfair that he will not be there to see it, but his memory will be alive in the minds of the spectators. Nothing would be possible without him," writes the "AS" article.

The German magazine "Kicker" has written, among other things, about the bonus promised by the Kosovo Government in the event of qualification for the World Cup. 1 million were promised for victory in the final, but "even more".

Meanwhile, powerful Turkish media outlets have sent teams of journalists to Kosovo. They are following the Turkish team, but also Kosovo, at every step. 

Corriere dello Sport: Kosovo for history, the small country dreams of the World Cup

The renowned Italian newspaper "Corriere dello Sport" has dedicated an article to today's historic match between Kosovo and Turkey.

In its article, the Italian media focuses on the unique journey of Kosovo, a team that represents more than just football. Built on a history of emigration, return and identity, this team is made up of players scattered across Europe. Of the 23 players selected, 13 were born abroad, while only 10 were born in Kosovo, making the team a strong mix of diaspora and local roots.

"A mixture of roots, departures, returns and children scattered across Europe. Kosovo dreams of its first World Cup and today that America no longer seems so far away. The dramatic victory in Slovakia, a 4-3 that gave even more weight to ambitions, has finally ignited the enthusiasm of a new national team as a state, but already rich in history, identity and belonging. More than a national team, Kosovo is almost a sentimental geographical map. Of the 23 players gathered, 13 were born abroad and only 10 in the country. Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, Croatia, even Belgium: the map of Kosovo passes through there, by the sons of the diaspora who grew up far away, but who have remained connected to a jersey that for many of them represents something much deeper than just football. It is a team built on two souls: that of those who stayed and that of those who left. And perhaps this is precisely its strongest point," the article writes.

Also in the spotlight is captain Amir Rrahmani, who despite his injury is expected to be with the team to support them in one of the most important challenges. The article also highlights the great influence that Italy has on this team, starting from Rrahmani himself to other players who are connected to the Italian championship.

On the bench, coach Franco Foda is described as the figure who best embodies Kosovo's "mixed" identity. "As a footballer and then as a coach, he has made discipline his trademark, but in Kosovo he has found something different: a team to shape not only tactically, but also emotionally. He has already coached Austria at Euro 2020, but since 2024 he has been the coach of a dressing room where different accents, paths and schools of football coexist, united nevertheless by the same goal."

The article goes on to say that the technical heart of the team beats especially between the attack and the advanced midfield. Former Lazio player, the “pirate” Vedat Muriqi, remains the main point in attack and the most recognizable face of the group. Alongside him is pure talent like Juventus’ Edon Zhegrova, born in Germany but also raised in Kosovo, a player capable of igniting the imagination, but who remained on the bench for 90 minutes of the semi-final against Slovakia. In goal, Sassuolo goalkeeper Arijanet Muriq, in defense, Como’s Mërgim Vojvoda. In midfield, experience and running with Valon Berisha, another son of the diaspora, and quality distributed in a team that mixes Balkan physicality with Central European formation.

"Corriere dello Sport" writes that it is no coincidence that Kosovo, although still a new reality in international football, has already built its own identity. It does not have the depth of the greats, but it has enthusiasm, intensity and a special motivation. For many of these boys, reaching the World Cup would mean much more than participating in a tournament: it would be the fulfillment of a sporting and national identity still under construction. And then yes, the dream is real. Not easy, but real. Kosovo believes and relies on the 13 thousand fans of Pristina, but also on its sons scattered across the continent.

BBC: Kosovo in euphoria dreams of World Cup history

The prestigious medium BBC has written about Kosovo's historic journey towards the playoff final that, if won on Tuesday, would take the "Dardans" to the World Cup.

In an article on the day of the match against Turkey, the BBC recalled that 10 years ago Kosovo had not had a single World Cup qualifying match and now they are 90 minutes away from the biggest football tournament.

It quoted coach Franco Foda who, after the victory over Slovakia, said that "we have a stadium with only 13 seats, but if we had 100, it would be full."

It has been pointed out that Turkey is the favorite, but it has been pointed out that Kosovo has a habit of breaking the predictions. Kosovo is unbeaten in five group matches, since losing 4:0 in the beginning to Switzerland. It has played with Sweden, Slovenia and then eliminated Slovakia in the playoffs.

If Kosovo plays in the World Cup, it would be part of Group D and would face Australia in Vancouver on June 13, Paraguay in San Francisco six days later and the USA in Los Angeles on June 25.

Former Kosovo captain Anel Rashkaj also spoke in this article, recalling Kosovo's first match, a friendly against Haiti in 2014. He said he was 17-18 years old and that the players were facing problems with their clubs.

He has said he will be at Tuesday's game.

“We went through a lot of hard times during the war and after the war there were economic problems – and there are still economic problems,” Rashkaj said. “People want to feel like they can come together and they feel like we are strong. The national team has given people this feeling that we are strong, that we can make a name for ourselves in Europe. It makes us even more proud that people see the people of Kosovo as contributors to the world.”

The final for history - Kosovo is ready

Many generations have dreamed of a decisive match for qualification for a major football event. They have sacrificed a lot as well.

And the moment of truth came.

On Tuesday at 20:45, Kosovo plays Turkey at "Fadil Vokrri". In case of victory, they can start planning their trip to the USA. Whoever wins on Tuesday at the stadium in Pristina will secure qualification for the World Cup in football, which will be held in Canada and Mexico in the summer, in addition to the USA.

Turkey aims to return to the global event after 24 years. In 2002, it was ranked third in South Korea and Japan.

Kosovo at that time also dreamed of friendly matches. Qualifying matches were not even on the horizon. Kosovo's footballers, who in the meantime began to be called "Dardans", played from time to time, with national teams and teams, until 2014. That year, FIFA gave permission for friendly matches. In 2016, Kosovo was accepted into UEFA and FIFA and began with competitive matches.

Almost ten years later, Kosovo is just one victory away from the World Cup. This is an amazing success. Of course, it has been dreamed of since Kosovo started playing matches, in the early nineties of the last century.

The “Dardans” made a big rise after the arrival of coach Franco Foda and the increase in professionalism around the representative team. In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, they were outsiders in a strong group with Switzerland, Sweden and Slovenia. But two wins against Sweden, a win and a draw with Slovenia and a draw with Switzerland brought them second place in the group and the playoffs. The playoff semi-final was successfully passed – with a 4:3 victory over Slovakia in Bratislava.

Thousands of Albanians were in Bratislava. And the enthusiasm before the final with Turkey is incredible. The demand for tickets is extraordinary. Tickets were sold out before the final was secured and now on the black market they are priced at hundreds of euros. But even with them it is difficult to secure one.

The stadium has a capacity of almost 14 seats. Too few for a match like Tuesday night's.

Kosovo are aware of the great opportunity they have. However, they are aware that excessive euphoria can also be harmful. Coach Franco Foda has demanded maximum focus, while Vedat Muriqi has promised the best possible.

"After independence, it could be the greatest happiness of our state. Our desire is maximum. We strongly believe in victory, if we all unite," said Muriqi.

The expectations from him and the other players are high.

Football has made other developments in the country be forgotten for a while. Even the "serious" political developments. Everyone wants a grand success. The government on Monday distributed the 500 thousand euros promised for the victory over Slovakia and promised 1 million euros, and even more, for the victory over Turkey.

The benefits, not only financial, will be enormous for Kosovo in the event of qualifying for the World Cup.

But it won't be easy. Turkey has some big names in football like Arda Guler, Kenan Yildiz and many others. They have also won their last three matches against Kosovo.

Turkey will also have the support of the spectators in Pristina. Many of its fans are already in Kosovo.

But hopes are high that this time the celebration will be for Kosovo.