FC Drita: The Kosovans making history

"To be completely honest, we never thought we would get eight points after our first four games – I didn’t, nor did the players."

Having become just the second Kosovan club to reach the league phase or group stage of a major UEFA competition, FC Drita head coach Zekirija Ramadani was aware of the challenge his side faced ahead of this season’s UEFA Conference League.

But an impressive run of two draws and two victories earned them a spot in the play-offs – and with it, a place in the record books as the first club from Kosovo to progress to the knockout stage of a UEFA men's club competition.

Despite the expectations, there was no suggestion that Drita would let themselves be burdened by the weight of history.

"I can even speak for our owners – they didn’t expect it either. But we worked tirelessly," added Ramadani. "I’m convinced that success doesn’t just come like that; it needs to be deserved, and I’m convinced that we’ve deserved this success."

'It’s a dream to be part of a European tournament'

Standing between Drita and the round of 16 are Slovenian side Celje.

Ahead of the first leg, to be played on 19 February, belief that they can continue their trailblazing run is high: "We have the quality and the will to go through the play-offs," said captain Rron Broja, who has been inspired by the chance to compete on the European stage.

"Being part of the Conference League means a lot, to the team and to Drita’s fans," added Broja. "For a footballer born and raised in Kosovo, it has always been a dream to be part of a European tournament and I think this is one of my biggest achievements."

FC Drita players celebrate a goal in the UEFA Conference LeagueUEFA via Getty Images

National pride

Reaching the Conference League round of 16 would represent a milestone not just for the club, but for the whole of Kosovan football.

Regardless of the result against Celje, there’s plenty to celebrate in Drita’s success. "We’ve made the whole of Kosovo proud, and it is a big responsibility to wear this shirt," admits Broja.

Goalkeeper Faton Maloku agrees: "Qualifying for Europe is very, very important for us as a nation – not just as a club," he said. "We have a deep history, which has included some very difficult times. All of this is like a reward for the sacrifices of the people who went through those events."