The air at Stadiumi Fadil Vokrri in Pristina is set to crackle with anticipation as Kosovo prepares to host Slovenia in a crucial World Cup Qualifier on October 10, 2025. This encounter marks a pivotal moment in both nations’ campaigns, with each side eager to assert their dominance and take a significant step towards football’s grandest stage. For Kosovo, playing on home soil presents a fervent advantage, backed by passionate supporters hoping to witness a historic upset. Slovenia, meanwhile, arrives with a quiet confidence, having historically held the upper hand in this fixture, but facing questions about their recent away form. Can Kosovo finally break their duck against a familiar foe, or will Slovenia extend their unbeaten run against the Dardanians and cement their qualifying ambitions? The stakes are high, and only 90 minutes will reveal the answers.
Head-to-Head
Historically, matches between Kosovo and Slovenia have been few but decisive. The two nations have met a total of two times since 2020, both encounters taking place in the UEFA Nations League.
- Total matches played: 2
- Kosovo wins: 0
- Draws: 0
- Slovenia wins: 2
The previous meetings saw Slovenia emerge victorious on both occasions. The results were as follows:
- 11 October 2020: Kosovo 0-1 Slovenia (UEFA Nations League)
- 15 November 2020: Slovenia 2-1 Kosovo (UEFA Nations League)
Slovenia has managed to secure both wins against Kosovo, even keeping a clean sheet in one of their encounters, with an average of two goals per game in these fixtures. Kosovo has yet to register a win or a draw against the Slovenians.
Current Form & Team News
As we approach this critical qualifier, both teams’ recent form offers a snapshot of their current capabilities, though specific injury and suspension details are projections for this future match date.
Kosovo
Kosovo’s recent form leading up to this match has shown a mixed bag of results, demonstrating their attacking potential, particularly in friendly fixtures, but also highlighting challenges in competitive play. In their last five matches (hypothetical scenario for October 2025):
- (W) vs. Comoros (INT FRL – 4-2 win, June 9, 2025)
- (W) vs. Armenia (INT FRL – 5-2 win, June 6, 2025)
- (D) vs. Sweden (FIFA World Cup Qualification – September 8, 2025)
- (L) vs. Switzerland (FIFA World Cup Qualification – September 5, 2025)
- (L) vs. Iceland (Nations League – March 23, 2025)
Kosovo has displayed a strong home record in competitive games, winning their last four. Key players like Vedat Muriqi will be crucial for their attacking prowess, while their defensive solidity will be tested against Slovenia’s tactical approach. There are no confirmed major injuries or suspensions at this hypothetical stage, suggesting a full-strength squad will be available for the manager to select from.
Slovenia
Slovenia’s recent performances indicate a team that can be resilient but has shown some vulnerability, particularly in away fixtures. Their last five matches (hypothetical scenario for October 2025):
- (L) vs. Switzerland (FIFA World Cup Qualification – 3-0 defeat, September 8, 2025)
- (D) vs. Sweden (FIFA World Cup Qualification – 2-2 draw, September 5, 2025)
- (W) vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina (INT FRL – June 10, 2025)
- (D) vs. Luxembourg (INT FRL – June 6, 2025)
- (L) vs. Slovakia (Nations League – March 23, 2025)
Slovenia began their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-2 draw against Sweden but then suffered a 3-0 defeat to Switzerland. Matjaž Kek’s side has struggled in recent away games, failing to win five of their last six. Goalkeeper Jan Oblak remains a pivotal figure in goal, and the attacking talents of Benjamin Šeško will be vital for unlocking Kosovo’s defense. Currently, there are no reported major injury concerns or suspensions, allowing Slovenia to field their strongest available lineup.
Tactical Preview
This match promises to be a fascinating tactical battle, with both teams likely to adopt contrasting approaches. Kosovo, playing at home in front of their fervent supporters, is expected to come out with an aggressive, attacking mindset. They might deploy a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on quick transitions and utilizing the pace of their wingers and the aerial threat of their central striker, likely Vedat Muriqi. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Kosovo aiming to press high and disrupt Slovenia’s rhythm, capitalizing on their home advantage.
Slovenia, under Matjaž Kek, is renowned for its disciplined and organized play. Given their struggles in recent away games, they might opt for a more cautious 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing defensive solidity and looking to hit Kosovo on the counter-attack. The midfield will be tasked with protecting the back four and initiating offensive moves through quick passes to their dynamic forwards, such as Benjamin Šeško. The presence of Jan Oblak in goal provides a strong last line of defense, capable of thwarting Kosovo’s attacking efforts. The pitch conditions at Stadiumi Fadil Vokrri are generally good, but the pressure of a home crowd could be a significant factor affecting player performance and decision-making for both sides.
