Turkey Qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup with 1-0 Win Over Kosovo

Pristina, March 31, 2026 — Turkey ended a 24-year wait to return to the FIFA World Cup by defeating Kosovo 1-0 in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers Path B Final on Tuesday night.Kerem Akturkoglu scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute to secure a hard-fought victory at the Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina and send Turkey to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Match Summary

The game was a tense and tightly contested affair. Turkey controlled much of the possession, but Kosovo defended stubbornly and created dangerous counter-attacking opportunities. The breakthrough finally came seven minutes after halftime when Kerem Akturkoglu found the net with a clinical finish, giving Turkey a 1-0 lead. Despite late pressure from Kosovo, Turkey’s defense held firm to preserve the clean sheet and clinch qualification.


Historic Moment for Turkey

This victory marks Turkey’s first appearance at the World Cup since 2002, when they famously finished in third place. After missing the last five tournaments, the 25th-ranked Turks finally ended their long drought under head coach Vincenzo Montella.Montella’s side blended experience with youthful energy throughout the qualifiers, and the playoff win represents a major success for Turkish football.

Kosovo’s Brave Campaign

For Kosovo, the result was bitterly disappointing. Ranked 79th in the world and playing in front of a passionate sold-out home crowd, they came within one match of reaching their first-ever World Cup. Their journey to the playoff final was still a significant achievement for a nation that only joined FIFA and UEFA less than a decade ago.


What’s Next

Turkey will now join the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. They will be looking to make a strong impression on their return to the global stage after nearly a quarter-century away.