On this day in 2018, a historic achievement unfolded in the realm of Kosovan football as F.C. Drita from Gjilan, a football club competing in the Kosovar SuperLeague, secured a groundbreaking victory, becoming the first club ever from Kosova to win a UEFA Champions League match.

The momentous event took place on June 26, 2018, when F.C. Drita faced Santa Colomas, a football club from Andorra, in the Semi-Final UEFA Champions League preliminary round for qualification into the groups. This match not only marked a significant milestone for the club but also showcased the rising prowess of Kosovan football on the international stage.

The journey leading to this achievement was accompanied by historical developments for Kosova in the broader European football landscape. Kosova was accepted as a member of UEFA on May 3, 2018, becoming the 55th member despite strong opposition from neighboring Serbia, from which it declared independence in 2008. The decision was made after a challenging UEFA Congress where 28 members voted in favor of Kosova, meeting the minimum necessary, while 24 members opposed, following a lengthy and occasionally contentious discussion.

Returning to the historic match on June 26, 2018, F.C. Drita showcased exceptional resilience and skill. After a goalless 90 minutes, the game progressed to extra-time. In the 99th minute, the Kosovar club made history by scoring the first goal, taking the lead at 1-0. Before the conclusion of the game, F.C. Drita secured another goal, triumphing with a final score of 2-0. This victory solidified F.C. Drita’s place in history as the first club ever from Kosova to win a UEFA Champions League match, showcasing the talent and determination within Kosovan football. The achievement resonated not only locally but also underscored the growing impact of Kosova in the global football community.