Kosovo faces a very difficult task against Sweden - Gazeta Express
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Express newspaper

09/04/2025 12:34

Kosovo faces a very difficult task against Sweden

Other sports

Express newspaper

09/04/2025 12:34

The Kosovo National Handball Team traveled today to Karlskrona, where they will play the match against Sweden tomorrow at 19:00 PM.

The Sweden - Kosovo match belongs to the second qualifying phase for the 2025 World Cup.

Since Monday, our national team has been training in another Swedish city, Eslov.

Coach Agron Shabani is satisfied with the work done, but acknowledges the strength of Sweden, which is by far the most qualitative national team in the second qualifying phase.

"Sweden is a national team with a rich history and consistent performance in the international arena. The team led by Tomas Axner consists of a combination of experienced players and young talents. Among them are several players who play in renowned European teams. Sweden continues to be an important force in international handball. Therefore, considering Sweden's experience and recent successes, our options are limited, even though we have made significant progress in recent years by achieving significant successes in the international arena," said Shabani.

He also talked about the changes in the team.

"In November, we secured first place in the group in the first qualifying phase by defeating Belgium and Bosnia-Herzegovina. At the moment, we have a completely new team, compared to the previous group. We are missing three players, Leonora Demaj, Marigona Hajdari and Arlinda Hajdari. Due to injury and personal obligations, we are not available at the moment. Mirela Gjikokaj and Merlinda Qorraj, who are players of the Norwegian elite, have returned. We have also invited several other players, trying to form a new team with new potential. It will not be easy, considering that we will have a new team on the playing field, with some training together. But I hope that the girls will give their maximum even though we are in a new situation", continued the Kosovo coach, Agron Shabani.

The return match is on Sunday at 17:15 at the Palace of Youth and Sports in Pristina. /Express newspaper