Kosovo is set to host Iceland at the Stadiumi Fadil Vokrri on Thursday evening in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation playoff.
The hosts are vying for a spot in League B after finishing second in their group, while Iceland is battling to avoid relegation to League C.
Kosovo’s Nations League Campaign
Kosovo had an impressive Nations League campaign, finishing second in League C, Group 2 with 12 points from six matches.
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They won four and lost two fixtures, with both losses coming against Romania. Kosovo’s recent form has been encouraging, with four wins and one defeat in their last five fixtures.
Iceland’s Struggles
Iceland, on the other hand, is in patchy form, with three wins, four losses, and one draw from their last nine outings.
They finished third in League B Group 4 with seven points, four behind second-placed Turkey.
New head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson will be looking to make an immediate impact and help Iceland maintain their League B status.
Team News and Lineups
Kosovo’s squad includes regular starters Amir Rrahmani, Valon Berisha, Milot Rashica, Edon Zhegrova, and Vedat Muriqi.
Arijanet Muric is expected to start in goal after a strong performance in Kosovo’s last match.
Iceland’s new captain, Orri Steinn Oskarsson, will likely start alongside Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, who will play behind Oskarsson in the absence of Gylfi Sigurdsson.
Key Stats:
Kosovo’s recent form: Four wins and one defeat in their last five fixtures
Iceland’s away form: Four defeats in their last six matches on the road
Head-to-head: Kosovo has lost their last two encounters against Iceland.
