In the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifying match, Kosovo will face Switzerland as they aim to secure their first victory in the group stage. The match will take place at the Fadil Vokrri Stadium on Saturday night.
Having narrowly missed out on the Euro 2020 qualification, Kosovo is off to a slow start in the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
With only three points from their first four fixtures, they are determined to turn their performances around. Their recent drawing streak was broken by a 2-1 defeat to Belarus in June, leaving manager Alain Giresse with some challenges to address.
Ranked 109th in the world by FIFA, Kosovo faces a tough test against Switzerland, but they managed to secure a 1-1 draw in their previous meeting in March 2022.
Kosovo has shown strength at home, losing only one of their last eight home internationals since 2022. However, their away record has been less impressive, winning only one of their last six fixtures.
On the other hand, Switzerland aims to qualify for their third successive European Championships and currently sits at the top of Group I with 10 points from four matches.
They started strong, winning their opening three qualifiers against Belarus, Israel, and Andorra with an impressive aggregate score of 10-1.
Their perfect record came to an end with a 2-2 draw against Romania, where a late comeback denied them a victory.
Head coach Murat Yakin emphasizes the importance of their upcoming matches against Kosovo and Andorra, stating that they are “two groundbreaking games” for Switzerland’s quest to top Group I.
With a ranking of 13th in the world by FIFA, Switzerland has performed well in Euro qualifying away matches, losing only two of their last ten.
Team News
Kosovo is expected to stick with a 4-2-3-1 formation, with captain Amir Rrahmani leading the defense alongside Mergim Vojvoda, Fidan Aliti, and Leart Paqarada. Edon Zhegrova and Milot Rashica will provide support on the wings, while Vedat Muriqi leads the line.
Switzerland welcomes the return of Noah Okafor, Cedric Itten, Ardon Jashari, Dan Ndoye, and Filip Ugrinic to their squad.
Captain Granit Xhaka is likely to start in midfield alongside Denis Zakaria, either Remo Freuler or Djibril Sow. Zeki Amdouni, who has been in impressive form with five goals in as many international appearances, will start up front.
Prediction
We predict a 2-0 victory for Switzerland in this match. While Kosovo has shown a propensity for frustrating opponents, Switzerland possesses a stronger squad that should be able to break down their defense and secure the three points.