Austria retain Group B3 lead as Kosovo hold on in Pristina

A 1‑1 draw between Kosovo and Austria in Pristina leaves the Austrians atop the UEFA Nations League Group B3 with eight points, keeps Kosovo second on five and gives the Republic of Ireland a game in hand as they prepare to face Israel later tonight.

The Kosovans opened the group campaign on Thursday, 24 September, beating Ireland 1‑0 at the same Fadil Vokrri Stadium.

How the goals unfolded

Kosovo seized the lead in the 70th minute when Juventus midfielder Edon Zhegrova surged down the right flank, laid the ball to forward Fisnik Asllani, who swept home from inside the Austrian box.

Austria restored parity in the 85th minute as Christoph Lang finished from a header after a long throw from Sunderland loanee Kevin Danso was flicked into the striker’s path.

The draw leaves Austria on eight points at the summit of Group B3, while Kosovo remain second on five, a single point clear of Ireland.

Earlier in the week Austria had rallied from two goals down to draw with Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, underscoring their resilience in the group.

The Boys in Green now have a game in hand against Israel in Backa Topola at 7.45 pm Irish time later this evening.