Israel vs Kosovo prediction 01.10.2026 | Nations League

Israel come into Thursday's contest after  a comprehensive 3:0 defeat against the Republic of Ireland on Sunday.

The contest was overshadowed by controversy surrounding Israel’s participation amid the conflict in Gaza. Ireland had faced widespread calls to boycott the fixture, while the players wore black armbands and declined the customary pre-match formalities as a gesture of protest.

Tensions were evident before kick-off, with neither team participating in the traditional handshake. Ran Ben Shimon’s side then endured a disastrous opening, conceding three times inside the first 25 minutes. 

Israel offered little response in a poor attacking performance, and failed to score for the first time in six matches..

Last weekend’s setback came on the back of a 3:1 defeat in Austria, leaving the designated hosts without a point after two Group B3 fixtures. Israel have already conceded six goals and sit at the bottom of the section.

The Blue and Whites have now lost five of their last six competitive matches, with 20 goals leaked during that period. 

Ben Shimon could make changes to his first XI after Sunday's poor display. Dor Peretz, Liel Abada and Tai Baribo are among those pushing for recalls, while Manor Solomon and Oscar Gloukh should retain their places in the final third.

Omri Gandelman is expected to remain unavailable with a knee injury.

Kosovo make the trip to Debrecen after slipping to a 3:1 defeat against Austria on Sunday.

Goals from David Affengruber, Junior Adamu and Carney Chukwuemeka put Austria firmly in control before Edon Zhegrova’s late penalty provided a consolation for the Kosovans.

Franco Foda's men were unable to build on an encouraging start to their Nations League campaign, having secured a deserved 1:0 victory against the Republic of Ireland in Pristina.

Vedat Muriqi’s 83rd minute goal secured the points for Kosovo.

A strong run of form in the last year has seen the Kosovans win six and lose only three of their last 11 international fixtures. 

On the road, Foda’s side secured impressive wins in Slovenia, Sweden and Slovakia as they narrowly missed out on World Cup qualification. 

Foda could freshen his side after the demanding trip to Austria. Milot Rashica, Fisnik Asllani and Albion Rrahmani are among those competing for starting positions.

Donat Rrudhani is doubtful after picking up a knock last weekend.