The Kosovo government has allocated 500,000 euros for the "Dardana" national team, following their historic victory in the play-off semi-final against Slovakia in Bratislava. The triumph that brings Primož Gliha's men one step closer to the 2026 World Cup has been described as one of the greatest successes of Kosovar football.
The decisive challenge will take place in Pristina against Turkey, where the government has promised a 1 million euro reward in case of victory, which would send the Dardanians to a World Cup for the first time.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti, in his statement, described the triumph in Bratislava as a historic moment:
"The triumph in the play-offs for the 2026 World Cup is proof of the world-class standing of our footballers. In November, we allocated 250,000 euros to secure the play-offs and pledged another 500,000 euros in the event of a victory over Slovakia - a promise that we are fulfilling today."
Kurti added that the goal is qualification:
"I hope our boys win the big play-off final and write their name in the history of Kosovo football as the first to lead the country to the World Cup. A qualification would be the most meaningful way to mark the 10th anniversary of Kosovo's admission to UEFA and FIFA."
He promised even greater rewards in case of successes in the US:
"If we qualify, we will allocate another 1 million euros to the team. And also, for the successes that may follow in the world championship, there will be rewards that you cannot imagine."
The decisive match against Turkey is expected to take place in front of an electrifying atmosphere at the "Fadil Vokrri" stadium, while enthusiasm for a historic qualification is at an all-time high.
