Kosovo national team defender Ilir Krasniqi has been one of the standout players in the Dardanelles’ last two matches in October, the draw against Slovenia and the historic away win against Sweden. He was also a starter in the first win against Sweden at the “Fadil Vokrri”.
With a calm, confident and personality-filled appearance, he has earned praise for his defensive contribution, confirming that he has become an important part of this team that is growing with each match.
In an interview for the telegraph, Ilir Krasniqi emphasized that the team has given its maximum in these matches and that the latest results are showing a new reality for the Kosovo National Team. He underlined that the group is going through a period of development and that the work done by the technical staff and the players is bearing fruit, restoring the confidence and enthusiasm of the fans.
Ilir Krasniqi, the wall of Kosovo
“Three very important matches were played and I believe the performances were quite positive, especially from the team in general. We fought to the maximum, taking into account the qualities of the opponents we faced,” said Krasniqi.
After the results achieved, the defender of Kolos in the Ukrainian championship sees this period as a moment that could mark a major turning point for the team. According to him, Kosovo is on the right track and every match now has the importance of a final.
“I believe this is a historic moment for us, although there is still a lot of work to do. Every match now for us is like a final, so we have to be focused and give everything on the pitch,” he declared.
Krasniqi before the match against Sweden
Krasniqi also spoke about the atmosphere in the team and the preparations under the guidance of coach Franco Foda, emphasizing that motivation is always at the highest level. He said that wearing the Kosovo jersey is a great privilege and responsibility.
“Foda always tells us that we have to be ready. I was highly motivated to give my contribution for Kosovo, and I think we showed that on the field,” the defender claimed.
Regarding the confrontations with high-class opponents such as Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško, Krasniqi admitted that they are difficult tests, but also opportunities to grow as a footballer.
Ilir Krasniqi in action against Alexander Isak
“Facing these names is difficult because we know their quality. They can punish you at any moment. It was difficult throughout the matches, but we had thought about how to stop them and we achieved this thanks to collective play and dedication to each other,” Krasniqi told Telegraf.
Regarding his form with his club in Ukraine, the Kosovar defender said he is satisfied with the team’s performance and the way it is adapting to the new championship.
“We also had a good start to the championship with the team. I missed one match due to a minor injury, but overall it’s a very positive adventure. I will continue to work hard, give my best and then we’ll see how things go,” he concluded.
The celebration of Ilir Krasniqi and Kreshnik Hajrizi
With this pace and calmness in the game, Ilir Krasniqi is being confirmed as one of the pillars of Kosovo’s defense, while his performances against Slovenia and Sweden have shown maturity, determination, and a calm leadership that gives confidence to the entire team. /Telegraph/