Italian defender Federico Dimarco has addressed the recent controversy surrounding his celebration of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s penalty shootout victory against Wales, asserting his respect for Bosnia and his former teammate Edin Dzeko, but criticizing the decision to broadcast the private moment on television.
Dimarco made headlines after Italy’s 2-0 win over Northern Ireland on Thursday. He and his Azzurri teammates were filmed reacting enthusiastically while watching the dramatic conclusion of the other World Cup play-off semifinal on their phones.
Speaking for the first time about the incident during a press conference in Coverciano, the Inter star explained, “I’m here, given that after the game against Northern Ireland, I was the protagonist of an incident. I respect every club and every country; it was an instinctive reaction.”
He further elaborated on his interaction with Bosnian captain Edin Dzeko, with whom he played for two years. “I was simply watching the penalty shootout with my teammates. Dzeko also plays for Bosnia. I played with him for two years, and I texted him. He replied to me, and I’m happy to see him in the final.” Dzeko’s late goal in that match forced the game into extra time and then penalties.
Dimarco was firm in his stance regarding any alleged disrespect: “I didn’t lack respect for Bosnia or the Bosnian people. It was said I was arrogant; with what right, since we haven’t been at the World Cup since 2014? How could I be arrogant?”
However, his primary criticism was directed at the media. “That said, I believe it was disrespectful to be filmed in a context where there were also friends, family, and children present.” He implied that broadcasting such a personal moment, even if public, crossed a line, given the informal setting and presence of non-participants.
The article also notes that two other Serie A players, Tarik Muharemovic (Sassuolo) and Sead Kolasinac (Atalanta), are part of the Bosnia squad and are expected to play against Italy in their upcoming match.
