Slovak national football teams face qualification challenges

The Slovak women's national football team is preparing for a two-legged play-off against Ukraine to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. Both matches will be held in Slovakia, with the first in Prešov on October 9 and the second in Košice on October 13. Coach Petr Kopúň noted that while Ukraine is ranked higher, the team aims to utilize their home-field advantage.

In men's football, the Slovak U21 team failed to qualify for the 2027 European Championship despite a 2-1 victory over Andorra. Mario Sauer scored both goals for Slovakia, but the win was insufficient to secure a play-off spot, as Ireland's victory over England allowed the Irish side to advance instead. Coach Jaroslav Kentoš and Sauer both expressed that while the result was a disappointment regarding qualification, the performance provided valuable experience for future cycles.