Muriqi strikes late as Kosovo sink Ireland

Vedat Muriqi's 83rd-minute goal gave Kosovo a 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in their Nations League opener.

Kosovo

— – —

NS · UEFA Nations League

Rep. Of Ireland

Competition

UEFA Nations League

Score

Kosovo 1-0 Republic of Ireland

Scorer

Vedat Muriqi 83'

Venue

Fadil Vokrri Stadium, Pristina

What happened. Kosovo captain Vedat Muriqi scored the only goal in the 83rd minute, bundling the ball in from close range after Ermal Krasniqi's shot hit the crossbar. The Republic of Ireland had earlier chances but couldn't find a breakthrough.

Ireland's best chance fell to Chiedozie Ogbene, who fired over from inside the box in the 22nd minute.
Kosovo had two shots cleared off the line and forced Caoimhin Kelleher into several saves.
James Abankwah made his first competitive start for Ireland in a back five.

Ireland's next Nations League fixtures are against Israel in Hungary on Sunday and then again in Serbia seven days later.

In this story

Rep. Of Ireland

Kosovo

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