Photo via Sky Sports

Republic of Ireland slip to deserved defeat in Kosovo

The Republic of Ireland suffered a narrow opening loss in the UEFA Nations League after falling 1-0 on the road against Kosovo. Vedat Muriqi secured the decisive breakthrough in the closing stages by bundling home from close range following a deflected effort.

Heimir Hallgrimsson's team had earlier weathered intense pressure, including goal-line clearances and crucial saves from goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, while Chiedozie Ogbene missed the visitors' best opportunity in the first half.