PRISTINA: Turkiye ended a 24-year wait to qualify for the World Cup by beating Kosovo 1-0 in their playoff final on Tuesday, sealing a return to football’s biggest stage for the first time since 2002 when they reached the semifinals. Forward Kerem Akturkoglu scored the only goal in the 53rd minute, turning the ball in from close range after Orkun Kokcu’s shot, following a driving run from Kenan Yildiz down the left.

Having gained independence in 2008, Kosovo are one game away from qualifying for the World Cup and sparking "the biggest celebrations ever seen in Pristina".

Kerem Akturkoglu scored for Turkey in their 1-0 victory to reach the World Cup and end Kosovo hopes of securing a place at their first finals

PRISTINA: Turkiye ended a 24-year wait to qualify for the World Cup by beating Kosovo 1-0 in their playoff final on Tuesday, sealing a return to football’s biggest stage for the…