Slovenia pleased with packed stadium in Pristina

The “Fadil Vokrri” Stadium will be packed with spectators for Friday’s match between Kosovo and Slovenia.

The match is part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and is important for both national teams. 

Slovenia has not made a good start to qualifying, and its campaign will depend greatly on its performance in Pristina.

Left-back Erik Janža spoke to the Slovenian federation’s official website on Wednesday.

“We have two more days of preparation before the match against a quality opponent. We are aware that we have to be at our best; there is not much room for theorizing. We know what we need to do if we want to advance,” Janža said.

He says Slovenia must play better than in its previous matches. He is optimistic about the result, provided they perform well.

He also said the Slovenians are ready to play in an electric atmosphere.

Janža expects a fiery start to the match.

“Even if the opponent puts us under pressure at the start, we have to stay calm and united. We must not make things complicated, but respond decisively and in an organized manner. I believe the rest of the match will be easier and we will have more chances to succeed,” said the player, who has made 25 appearances and scored three goals for Slovenia.

The 32-year-old is happy that the stadium will be packed.

“It’s always good when the fans are in the stadium. The more electric the atmosphere, the greater the motivation. We’re sure to find an extraordinary environment and good energy,” said Erik Janža, who plays for Gornik in Poland.

Defender Žan Karničnik also said they are aware of the importance of the matches.

“The first match in particular will be extremely important. We have to go into it with a clear goal—to win,” said the Celje defender. 

He knows that Kosovo’s fans are euphoric after the victory over Sweden.

“Kosovo has been swept up in euphoria after the win over Sweden. So we will have to calm things down at the start by withstanding their pressure. We have confidence in our quality and our style of play, which will be decisive for success,” Karničnik said.

On September 5, Slovenia drew 2-2 with Sweden in Ljubljana, while Kosovo lost 4-0 to Switzerland in Basel.

On September 8, Kosovo won 2-0 against Sweden at “Fadil Vokrri,” while Slovenia lost 3-0 to Switzerland in Basel.