Ralf Rangnick criticizes catastrophic pitch in Pristina after 1-1 draw with Kosovo

In the Fadil‑Vokrri Stadium in Pristina, the Austrian national team, after a disappointing 1‑1 draw against Kosovo, faced not only a loss of points but an unplayable pitch. The 68‑year‑old head coach Ralf Rangnick used the press conference to sharply criticize the condition of the turf.

Criticism of the pitch and reactions

Rangnick stated that anyone who calls the pitch acceptable “has no idea about football”. He described the playing surface as “a complete disaster” and emphasized that a Nations‑League‑level match under such conditions would be undignified.

The former Bundesliga coach recalled having been negatively surprised already during the final training session the day before. Despite the harsh words, he did not want to criticize Kosovo across the board and stressed that the country deserves a better pitch.

Midfielder Xaver Schlager backed Rangnick and said, “Direct play was impossible, every ball bounced, football had little to do with it”. He also criticized the condition of the turf.

Rangnick added that the Austrian FA delegation greatly appreciated the hospitality of the people in the country.

In Group 3 of League B, Austria leads with eight points, while Kosovo and Ireland each have five points; Israel sits at the bottom of the table with two points.