Kosovo embarks on the independent football path

The youngest UEFA member was admitted at 3 May 2016, and ten days later Kosovo was also admitted to FIFA, together with Gibraltar.

Before joining the top two football organizations, Kosovo played its first friendly international against Haiti (0:0) in 2014, followed by two more friendly victories against Oman (1:0) and Equatorial Guinea (2:0).

On the eve of the start of the Road to Russia, Kosovo defeated Faroe Islands 2:0, and the first competitive challenge for Albert Bunjaki's men was the away match at Finland. Kosovo came back home with a historic point, courtesy of Valon Berisha's penalty in a 1:1 draw.

Later on, Kosovo twice succumbed to Turkey (2:0, 3:1), and once to Croatia (6:0), Ukraine (3:0), and Iceland (2:1), yet on a couple of occasions it confirmed the potential to make life difficult for many rivals.

Alongside Valon Berisha of Red Bull Salzburg, Kosovo is led by captain Samir Ujkani, Cremonese goalkeeper, while the Croatian public is especially familiar with Amir Rrahmani, a defender who wore Split, Dinamo, and Lokomotiva jerseys. Midfielders Fanol Perdedaj and Enis Alushi contribute experience from Germany, with numerous others respectable European club have confidence in Kosovo internationals.

During the renovation of Priština and Mitrovica stadiums to comply with UEFA and FIFA regulations, Kosovo plays home matches at Loro Borici Stadium in the Albanian city of Shkoder. The all-time top goalscorer is currently striker Albert Bunjaku with three goals in six appearances.

As Kosovo gathers competitive experience and continues to develop at all levels, UEFA president Aleksandar Čeferin offers support: "I congratulate the Kosovo Football Federation president Vokrri for the dedication and the desire to improve. UEFA will strongly back Kosovo and assist in every possible manner, aware that the recent UEFA admittance means that many things have still to be done".

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