Kosovo’s crucial UEFA Nations League clash with Austria is underway at the Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina, with the hosts looking for revenge and a result that could reshape the battle at the top of Group B3.
The match kicked off at 18:00 local time, with Kosovo entering the fourth round in second place on four points. Austria lead the group with seven points and remain unbeaten in the competition.
The two teams met only a week ago in Vienna, where Austria claimed a 3 1 victory. Kosovo responded with a goalless draw against Israel, while Austria were held to a 2 2 draw by the Republic of Ireland.
There is encouraging news for Kosovo coach Franco Foda, with Vedat Muriqi returning to the starting lineup. Edon Zhegrova and Baton Zabërgja also start in attack, giving Kosovo significant offensive firepower for one of their biggest matches of the campaign.
Amir Saipi starts in goal, while Kosovo’s lineup also includes Lumbardh Dellova, Ilir Krasniqi, Ron Raçi, Dion Gallapeni, Mërgim Vojvoda, Leon Avdullahu and Veldin Hodža.
Austria arrive in Pristina as the group leaders after collecting seven points from their opening three matches. Ralf Rangnick’s side have already scored eight goals in the competition, with UEFA noting that all eight had been scored by different players before tonight’s match.
A Kosovo victory would move Foda’s team level with Austria on seven points and dramatically increase the pressure in the race for first place.
Eight Nations League matches on Sunday
Kosovo against Austria is only part of a busy Nations League programme tonight. UEFA has eight matches scheduled across Leagues A, B and D.
Azerbaijan vs Lithuania, 15:00 CET
Kosovo vs Austria, 18:00 CET
Malta vs Andorra, 18:00 CET
Greece vs Germany, 20:45 CET
Netherlands vs Serbia, 20:45 CET
Portugal vs Norway, 20:45 CET
Wales vs Denmark, 20:45 CET
Republic of Ireland vs Israel, 20:45 CET
Among the biggest later matches, Germany travel to face Greece in a key Group A2 contest, while the Netherlands host Serbia. Defending Nations League champions Portugal face Norway, with Portugal attempting to preserve their perfect start to the campaign.
For Kosovo, however, all attention is now on Pristina. With Austria only three points ahead, tonight’s result could turn Group B3 into a wide open battle heading into the final two rounds in November.
