Kosovo - Ireland

Kosovo and Ireland meet at Fadil Vokrri Stadium on 24 September 2026 for their opening fixture of the UEFA Nations League B Group 3. Both nations enter this matchday 1 encounter looking to establish early momentum in a competitive group, though each side faces significant personnel challenges heading into the fixture. Kosovo must navigate the absence of the injured Florent Muslija and Kreshnik Hajrizi, while the expected XI features Vedat Muriqi leading the attack alongside Fisnik Asllani.

Ireland arrive for this contest dealing with a depleted squad, as Nathan Collins, Josh Cullen, Evan Ferguson, and Jack Taylor are all sidelined through injury. Despite these absences, the visitors are expected to field a defensive unit anchored by Dara O'Shea and Jake O'Brien in front of goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. With both teams adjusting to these key personnel gaps, the tactical battle between Kosovo's midfield trio and the Irish engine room will likely define the outcome of this opening clash.