World Cup – European classification
6:45 p.mMarch 31, 2026
end
Fadil Vokrri Stadium
Referee: Michael Oliver, England
Kosovo
Turkey
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
0.00
Expected Goals (xG)
0.00
Passing by
261 (74%)
Accurate passes
422 (84%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
1
G
Arijanet Murić
6.6
d
Albian Hajdari
45+1′ Unsportsmanlike conduct
13
d
Kreshnik Hajrizi
7.5
5
d
Lumbardh Dellova
7.3
19
M
Dion Gallapeni
6.7
6
M
Elvis Rexhbeçaj
6.2
20
M
Veldin Hodža
6.6
15
M
Exile Vojvoda
6.3
F
Florent Muslija
83′ missing
18
F
Vedat Muriqi (C)
6.5
11
F
Noble Asllani
7.2
World Cup – Europe Classification – Group B
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – World Cup
- Promotion – World Cup (Promotion: )
Türkiye secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Kosovo, with a second-half goal from Kerem Aktürkoğlu proving decisive in their World Cup qualifier.
Türkiye secured three crucial points on the road, defeating Kosovo 1-0 at the Fadil Vokrri Stadium. Kerem Aktürkoğlu scored the lone goal in the 53rd minute. His finish secured a vital win for the visitors in a tense encounter.
Going into the match, both teams were hoping for a significant boost in their World Cup qualification campaign. Türkiye wanted to consolidate its strong position, being second with 12 points. Kosovo, with 10 points, looked to close the gap on their rivals in a competitive group.
In the first half, Türkiye asserted control of possession, moving the ball with purpose. Kosovo, however, remained resolute in their defensive form. They largely limited Türkiye to shots from outside the box.
The chances were very slim for both sides. Kosovo tried to counter, forcing Turkey’s defense to stay alert. The intensity of the match grew towards the break.
Shortly before the break, the referee issued two yellow cards. Kosovo’s Ardian Hajdari and Kerem Aktürkoğlu were booked at minute 45+1 for unsportsmanlike conduct. This incident highlighted the competitive nature of the contest.
The first half ended without progress, leaving both teams to reassess their strategies. Türkiye needed to convert their possession into clear chances. Kosovo tried to take advantage of any gaps on the counter-attack after the restart.
Türkiye found their breakthrough in the 53rd minute. Orkun Kökçü made a precise pass to Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper. This goal ignited the Turkish celebrations and gave them a deserved lead.
After the goal, Türkiye’s focus shifted to protecting their advantage. İsmail Yüksek, Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Zeki Çelik received yellow cards for fouls. This period reflected Türkiye’s determination to see the result against a pressed Kosovo.
Kosovo responded with substitutions, with Edison Zhegrova and Florent Muslija injecting fresh offensive impetus. Fisnik Asllani had two shots on goal, but couldn’t find the equaliser. Türkiye’s defense held firm under pressure.
In the final minutes, the match turned into a flurry of cards. Florent Muslija and Milot Rashica received yellow cards for Kosovo, showing their frustration. Turkish goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır also saw yellow for delaying the match.
The stats reflect a tight game despite Türkiye’s win. Türkiye had 12 shots in total to Kosovo’s 11, with both teams registering 2 shots on goal. Türkiye maintained 58% possession, turning their dominance into the decisive goal.
This 1-0 win significantly boosts Türkiye’s qualification hopes, taking them to 15 points. For Kosovo, the defeat makes their road to the World Cup that much more difficult, leaving them still with 10 points after five games.
