Match Overview: Kosovo vs Sweden
The Matchday 6 World Cup 2026 qualifier between Kosovo and Sweden is scheduled for September 8 at Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina. This comprehensive preview offers a detailed prediction, betting insights, and key statistics for the Kosovo vs. Sweden encounter.
Kosovo’s Current Form and Qualifying Struggles
Kosovo suffered a heavy 0-4 away defeat against Switzerland in their last qualifying match. Their winless streak in World Cup qualifiers now extends to six games (two draws, four losses). Notably, the team conceded at least two goals in four of these matches. Historically, Kosovo has managed only one clean sheet in all their World Cup qualifying campaigns. Currently, Franco Foda’s side is at the bottom of Group B with no points.
Key Statistics for Kosovo
- Kosovo has failed to score more than one goal in their last 19 World Cup qualifying matches.
- At home, Kosovo has lost eight of their previous nine World Cup qualifiers (one draw).
- The team has conceded the opening goal in their last nine home matches in this tournament.
Expected Kosovo Starting XI
Kosovo’s Probable Starting Lineup (4-5-1)*
Arijanet Muric – Mergim Vojvoda, Amir Rrahmani, Lumbardh Dellova, Leart Paqarada – Muharrem Jashari, Ermal Krasniqi, Florent Muslija, Elvis Rexhbecaj, Leon Avdullahu – Vedat Muriqi.
Sweden’s Form and Group Standings
Jon Dahl Tomasson’s Sweden secured a 2-2 draw away against Slovenia in their most recent qualifier. The Scandinavians are currently on a five-match winless run in World Cup qualifiers (two draws, three defeats), although they did manage to end a four-game scoring drought in the tournament. Sweden has kept a clean sheet in only one of their last five World Cup qualifying matches. They currently hold second place in Group B.
Key Statistics for Sweden
- At least one team failed to score in six of Sweden’s last seven World Cup qualifying matches.
- Away from home, Sweden has not won in seven of their last eight World Cup qualifiers (two draws, five losses).
- In four of their last five away matches in this tournament, the Swedes have conceded at least two goals.
Expected Sweden Starting XI
Sweden’s Probable Starting Lineup (4-3-3)*
Robin Olsen – Daniel Svensson, Isak Hien, Hjalmar Ekdal, Gabriel Gudmundsson – Hugo Larsson, Anton Saletros, Yasin Ayari – Anthony Elanga, Viktor Gyökeres, Alexander Berardsson.
Match Prediction Analysis
Even on home turf, Kosovo has struggled to secure positive results in World Cup qualifiers. Throughout their history, the national team has suffered eight home defeats and managed only one draw. Despite their reputation as a solid mid-tier team, Sweden rarely wins away from home, securing just one victory in their last eight World Cup qualifying away matches (two draws, five losses). However, it’s worth noting that their sole away victory in this period was precisely against Kosovo, a dominant 3-0 win.
Defensive Weaknesses and Attacking Strengths
Kosovo’s defensive vulnerabilities frequently undermine their performance. In their World Cup qualifying home games, the team has yet to keep a clean sheet, conceding at least two goals in seven of those matches. Sweden’s attacking lineup, valued at over 200 million euros, will be keen to showcase its full potential against such an opponent.
Final Verdict and Betting Tip
My prediction for this match is: Sweden will not lose and Total Goals Over 1.5 at odds of 1.52
* For each team, the starting lineup from their previous match in this tournament is indicated.