FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The Kosovo national team was very close to a historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, but the home defeat to Turkey ended this goal that seemed achievable. The defeat extinguished the hopes of the "Dardans" for a first participation in a World Cup, leaving behind disappointment and question marks for the future.
Despite the potential to try again in the future, the current squad is expected to undergo significant changes. A good portion of the players who have been the backbone of the team are over 30 years old and may not be at the same level in the next qualifying cycle.
In the defense, names like Amir Rrahmani (32), Florent Hadërgjonaj (31), Fidan Aliti (32), Mërgim Vojvoda (31) and Leart Paqarada (31) constitute an experienced core, but in the next 3-4 years they are expected to have a more limited role. For some of them, this may have been the last chance to qualify for the World Cup.
The situation is similar in midfield and attack. Valon Berisha (33) is nearing the end of his World Cup qualifiers with Kosovo, while Vedat Muriqi (31), one of the key figures in attack, may not be at his peak when the 2030 World Cup qualifiers take place.
The loss to Turkey not only ended the 2026 dream, but also highlighted the need to renew the team and prepare a new generation of players. It remains to be seen how the team will be built in the coming years and whether Kosovo will manage to maintain its competitiveness on the international stage.
Lini një Përgjigje