Kosovo shone, but Austria spoiled the party at the end

The Kosovo national team drew 1:1 with Austria at the “Fadil Vokrri” stadium, in a match where the Dardanians came very close to victory.

Kosovo put in a good performance and led for around 85 minutes, but Austria managed to equalize at the end and take a point from Pristina.

The match was valid for the fourth round of Group B3 of the Nations League.

The first half ended goalless, although both teams had chances to score. Kosovo created several opportunities, while goalkeeper Amir Shaipi was in top form in goal, denying the Austrians.

The “Dardanians” started the second half well too, and in the 66th minute head coach Franco Foda made a substitution that proved decisive.

Fisnik Asllani came on in place of Vedat Muriqi and only four minutes later scored for 1:0.

After a good Kosovo move and a lovely piece of skill by Edon Zhegrova in the box, Asllani shot accurately and beat goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

It was Asllani’s fifth goal in a Kosovo shirt in 20 appearances.

Kosovo came very close to a second goal as well. In the 73rd minute, Milot Rashica, who had come on in place of Baton Zabërgja, hit the post.

Rashica shot with his left foot and the ball came back off the post. Veldin Hoxha then tried as well, but Schlager reacted well and saved Austria.

Just when everything seemed to be heading toward a Kosovo victory, Austria equalized.

In the 84th minute, Saša Kalajdžić crossed into the box, while Christoph Lang was accurate with a header for 1:1.

Kosovo tried to retake the lead in the final minutes, but without success.

With this draw, Austria remains unbeaten after four matches and leads Group B3 with eight points. Kosovo is second with five points, Ireland has four points in third place but a game in hand, while Israel is last with one point.

In November, Kosovo will host Israel at home and travel to Ireland. Austria, meanwhile, will host Ireland and play away against Israel.