The Bosnia and Herzegovina national team is gearing up for a crucial World Cup play-off final against Italy. The squad is spearheaded by the formidable forward Edin Dzeko, a familiar name from his impactful stints with Inter, Fiorentina, and Roma in Serie A. Adding strength to the team are two Serie A defenders: Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta and Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo.
The highly anticipated match will take place next Tuesday in Zenica. Bosnia secured their spot in the final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Wales, a game where Dzeko played a pivotal role by scoring a late equalizer in the 86th minute. Meanwhile, Italy advanced after a solid 2-0 win against Northern Ireland.
At 40 years old, Dzeko continues to be the team’s captain and inspirational leader, boasting an impressive record of 73 goals in 147 international appearances. This season, he made a move from Fiorentina to Schalke 04, where he has already found the net six times in eight appearances in the 2. Bundesliga. His illustrious career also includes a Premier League title with Manchester City and a remarkable 107 goals in 279 Serie A matches across his time at Inter, Fiorentina, and Roma.
Among other key players, 32-year-old Sead Kolasinac is an experienced defender for Atalanta, bringing a wealth of Serie A knowledge to the backline. Joining him is 22-year-old Tarik Muharemovic of Sassuolo, considered one of Italy’s top emerging center-backs. A product of the Juventus Academy, Muharemovic played the full 120 minutes against Wales, showcasing his defensive prowess and also proving to be a threat in attack with two goals and two assists in 26 league games this season. Ahead of the Italy clash, he confidently stated, “I’m not worried, I’ll be waiting for you. At our home.” He also reflected on his personal growth, transforming from a shy player to a tough defender, attributing his development to his father’s influence.
Another defender in the Bosnia and Herzegovina squad is Dennis Hadzikadunic, who currently plays for Serie B side Sampdoria, on loan from Rostov.
