Kosovo
Odds to win: 500/1
Overview
Kosovo are one of the newest members of FIFA, having been admitted in 2016, and their participation at the 2026 World Cup would be an extraordinary story for a nation that declared independence only in 2008. The Dardanians have rapidly developed their national team, with a squad almost entirely composed of diaspora players born in Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, and other European nations. This gives Kosovo a remarkably talented squad relative to their short footballing history. They play an energetic, attacking style that belies their underdog status, and their players compete at high levels across European leagues.
Key Players
Vedat Muriqi
Forward · Mallorca
Milot Rashica
Forward · Besiktas
Amir Rrahmani
Defender · Napoli
World Cup History
Kosovo have never qualified for a FIFA World Cup or any major tournament. Having only joined FIFA in 2016, their footballing history as an independent nation is extremely short. Any major tournament qualification would represent a monumental moment for a country whose international recognition remains politically complex, with not all FIFA member nations recognizing Kosovo's independence.
Fun Fact
Kosovo's first official FIFA match was a friendly against Haiti in March 2014. Since gaining FIFA membership, they have achieved several impressive results, including a draw with England in Euro 2020 qualifying.
Predict Kosovo's Path to the Final
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