Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Italy in a World Cup playoff. The match concluded after extra time with a score of 1-1, leading to a penalty shootout where Bosnia and Herzegovina prevailed 4-1.
Italian Reaction to the Loss
Gennaro Gattuso, the coach, apologised, stating that his future was not important, but getting to the World Cup was. Leonardo Spinazzola said the team was in disbelief. He noted the impact on families and children who have never seen Italy at a World Cup.
Bosnian Celebration
The song ‘I am from Bosnia, take me to America’ was played at the Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica as Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated their win. The song is by the Bosnian band Dubioza Kolektiv. According to Bob Kurac, football is the most unifying force in Bosnia, a country that is politically divided.
Controversy and Commentary
Commentators in Italy were reportedly upset that Muharemović wasn’t sent off for a foul. One observer noted that Italy should have finished their chances in the second half.
Džeko’s Pre-Match Comments
Before the game, Edin Džeko questioned why Italy would be afraid to play in Wales. Following the match, it was clear that Italy would be missing one of the behemoths of the World Cup for the third time in a row.
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Achievement
The Stadion Bilino Polje was described as bouncing as Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated reaching only their second finals, following their appearance in 2014.