Sweden had won each of their three H2Hs against Kosovo, most recently defeating their hosts 3-0 in their last WCQ campaign in 2021.
They came into this match as considerable favourites, but despite a promising start in which the Swedes dominated possession and probed often, it was Kosovo who were creating the superior opportunities.
Threatening on the break, Franco Foda’s side went close to breaking the deadlock after 10 minutes when Albion Rrahmani latched onto a through ball but couldn’t guide his effort on target.
Another warning shot was sent when Vedat Muriqi found himself in a promising position in the box, only to be let down by a loose touch that saw the chance slip away.
It appeared that Sweden were ramping up their efforts as Viktor Gyokeres showed his strength to work a shooting angle in the box, yet the visitors’ most promising opening thus far eventually led to the game’s opener at the other end.
A long ball set Elvis Rexhbecaj racing towards goal, and after seeing his initial shot saved by Robin Olsen, the midfielder reacted first to turn in on the rebound.
The hosts continued to repel Swedish attacks for the remainder of the half, eventually doubling their surprise lead with another counter-attack in the 42nd minute, as Rrahmani picked out Muriqi, who lashed his strike past Olsen.
Jon Dahl Tomasson opted to keep Alexander Isak on the bench as the second half kicked off, instead turning to Ken Sema and Sebastian Nanasi to make an impact.
However, with an hour played, those alterations had done little to change the visitors’ fortunes, edging the side ranked 66 places lower ever closer to a huge result.
Kosovo had conceded in each of their five matches this year, but a well-organised defensive unit were giving Sweden no joy, eventually prompting the introduction of Isak after 72 minutes.
Remarkably, Kosovo maintained an attacking edge, almost extending their advantage further through Florent Muslija, who dragged wide after skipping past several challenges.
Ultimately, there was no way through for a blunt Sweden despite Lindon Emerllahu’s late dismissal for a second yellow card six minutes after coming on.
Having drawn 2-2 with Slovenia on Friday, this damaging defeat leaves Blagult already five points behind group leaders Switzerland, who are firmly in pole position to qualify directly. Kosovo, meanwhile, are now their closest challengers after picking up their first points of the qualification cycle.