Kosovo Stun Sweden 1-0 in World Cup Qualifier

Sweden's winless streak continues with loss to Kosovo

Sweden's winless streak in World Cup qualifying continues with a defeat to Kosovo. Sweden's World Cup dreams are in tatters after a 1-0 loss to Kosovo in their latest qualifier.

This win keeps Kosovo's World Cup dream alive, bringing them one step closer to their first-ever appearance...

Sweden's World Cup dreams are in disarray after suffering another defeat to Kosovo, this time 1-0 at home in Gothenburg. The loss leaves them winless in qualifying, putting their chances of reaching the FIFA World Cup finals in serious doubt.

The hosts had a golden opportunity to turn their fortunes around, but key players like Alexander Isak failed to make an impact. Isak had scored twice against Kosovo previously and had a strong record at home, but he couldn't replicate his form in this crucial match.

 As Yasin Ayari's corner kick came in, Sweden fans held their breath in anticipation. However, Alexander Isak's header was expertly saved by Arijanet Muric, denying Sweden a crucial opportunity. The game progressed, Kosovo started to gain momentum, with Fisnik Asllani's long-range shot easily gathered by Sweden's goalkeeper, Viktor Johansson.

However, Kosovo's persistence paid off when Asllani scored after Veldin Hodza's attempted pass fell into his path. The goal stunned Sweden, and Kosovo nearly doubled their lead just before halftime when Vedat Muriqi's shot was parried to Leon Avdullahu, who unfortunately hit the post.

Sweden made a triple substitution at halftime in an attempt to turn the game around. One of the new faces, Anthony Elanga, provided an early boost with a promising cross that found Viktor Gyokeres. However, the striker's header was well saved by Arijanet Muric.

Elanga continued to create opportunities, with Alexander Isak getting on the end of another delivery, but the striker headed over from a promising position. Roony Bardghji, another substitute, also had a chance, with his corner finding Gustaf Lagerbielke, who agonizingly headed wide.

𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗧𝗜𝗗

Förlust mot Kosovo.

🇸🇪 0-1 🇽🇰 pic.twitter.com/skY40dPphl

— Svensk Fotboll (@svenskfotboll) October 13, 2025

Sweden's desperation grew as the match progressed, with Anthony Elanga sending in several dangerous crosses into the box. Alexander Isak met one such cross with his head, but Arijanet Muric pulled off another stunning save to deny Sweden. Kosovo's victory marked the first time they've won consecutive head-to-head matches against Sweden.

This win keeps Kosovo's World Cup dream alive, bringing them one step closer to their first-ever appearance in the tournament as an independent nation. Meanwhile, Sweden's loss puts more pressure on coach Jon Dahl Tomasson, who faces an uphill task to salvage Sweden's World Cup qualification hopes.