On Saturday evening, Slovenia will host Kosovo at the Stozice Stadium as part of the UEFA qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This match is crucial for both teams, each holding aspirations for advancement in Group B.
Match Overview
Slovenia currently ranks 51st in the world and is striving to revive its World Cup hopes. They have struggled recently, going three games without a win or a goal. Their recent performances include a 3-0 loss to Switzerland and goalless draws against Kosovo and Sweden. Slovenia’s lone bright spot in this campaign was a 2-2 draw against Sweden, highlighted by a late equalizer from Zan Vipotnik.
Throughout the qualifiers, Slovenia has scored only two goals in four matches, amassing a mere three points. Their overall record since the beginning of 2024 has been underwhelming, with only three wins in competitive fixtures, which places them in a precarious position heading into this match.
Kosovo’s Emerging Strength
In contrast, Kosovo is enjoying one of its most successful qualification campaigns to date. Under the guidance of Franco Foda, they have achieved seven points from four matches, positioning themselves second in the group. Kosovo’s performance includes two victories, one draw, and one defeat, putting them three points behind group leaders Switzerland.
After starting their campaign with a heavy loss to Switzerland, Kosovo bounced back impressively. They secured a notable win against Sweden and recently held Slovenia to a goalless draw before defeating Sweden again 1-0 in a rematch. Their world ranking has significantly improved to 84th, a remarkable rise from 177th eight years ago.
Current Form Comparison
- Slovenia World Cup Qualifying Form: DLDD
- Kosovo World Cup Qualifying Form: LWDW
- Slovenia Overall Form: WWDLDD
- Kosovo Overall Form: WWLWDW
Team News and Expected Lineups
Slovenia is expected to feature captain Jan Oblak in goal, supported by defenders Jaka Bijol, Vanja Drkusic, David Brekalo, and Erik Janza. However, the absence of Manchester United forward Benjamin Sesko due to injury is a significant blow to their attacking options. Danijel Sturm and Zan Vipotnik are likely to lead the front line, flanked by Timi Max Elsnik and Adam Gnezda Cerin in midfield.
For Kosovo, Fisnik Asllani, who played a key role in the recent victory over Sweden, will likely partner with the experienced Vedat Muriqi in the attack. New additions Leon Avdullahu and Dion Gallapeni aim to strengthen the squad, with Albion Rrahmani expected to provide support from the bench.
Predicted Lineups
| Slovenia | Kosovo |
|---|---|
| Oblak | Muric |
| Brekalo | Gallapeni |
| Bijol | Hajdari |
| Drkusic | Hajrizi |
| Janza | Krasniqi |
| Karnicnik | Muslija |
| Gnezda Cerin | Avdullahu |
| Elsnik | Hodza |
| Horvat | Vojvoda |
| Vipotnik | Muriqi |
| Sturm | Asllani |
As the two teams face off, Slovenia will be eager to secure a crucial victory to keep their World Cup dreams alive, while Kosovo aims to continue its impressive run. The outcome of this match could significantly impact their respective qualifications, with each team desperate for points.
Conclusion
Expect a tightly contested match in Ljubljana, where both Slovenia and Kosovo strive for a vital win. With Kosovo maintaining strong momentum, they could follow up their previous defensive performance with another crucial result against Slovenia.
