Kosovo is gripped by football fever as the national team prepares for a ?????a showdown against Turkey in Pristina, with a place in the World Cup playoffs final at stake.

The “Dardanians” are hoping the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the team will carry on well beyond midnight and potentially all the way into summer if they secure a historic qualification step.

Head coach Franco Foda has opted to stick with the same starting lineup that delivered a strong performance against Slovakia. Arijanet Muriç retains his place in goal, while Lumbardh Dellova, Fidan Hajrizi, and Leart Paqarada anchor the defense. On the flanks, Mërgim Vojvoda and Florent Muslija are expected to push forward, supporting a midfield trio of Valon Berisha, Elvis Rexhbeçaj, and Milot Rashica. Up front, Kosovo will rely on the attacking partnership of Vedat Muriqi and Astrit Selmani.

The match will be officiated by English referee Michael Oliver, assisted by Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring, with Chris Kavanagh serving as the fourth official. The VAR team will be led by Spain’s Carlos del Cerro Grande, alongside assistant Andrew Dallas.

Kickoff is scheduled for 20:45 local time, with fans across Albanian-speaking regions able to watch the match live on Top Channel and DigitAlb.

With a passionate home crowd expected in Pristina, Kosovo stands on the brink of a significant milestone, aiming to keep their World Cup dream alive in what promises to be a high-stakes and emotionally charged encounter.