Bosnia and Herzegovina’s national football team will play its UEFA Nations League Round 4 match against Poland, and head coach Sergej Barbarez addressed the media.
The Dragons are still undefeated in League B, Group 4. The match against the Poles, who arrived in Bosnia and Herzegovina without the suspended Robert Lewandowski, means a lot for our national team.
“Regarding the next match, we all know what could happen with any result, but of course our goal is to win this. We have that experience from the first match with Poland, and we will be going for all three points.”
Against Sweden, many players pushed themselves to the limit; some played their third consecutive match, but for Barbarez this is part of the competition at this level.
“Only Edin has retired from international duty. Everyone else is here. There is a bit of fatigue, but we can handle it. Some players played three matches, but I told players that if they want to play at the highest level, this is what it takes.
As for Baždar, he was injured in the first two matches. In the last one, Edin joined the squad, and I didn’t want to have a fifth or sixth striker in the team. Two players will certainly have to go to the stands, but we will see who it will be.”
The point in Poland was realistic, and Barbarez expects this match will decide second place.
Armin Gigović claimed that although he is tired, he expects a strong performance from the team.
“I am not a fan of such calculations. Anything can happen there. We have this last match against Poland now, but then we have Sweden away and Poland at home. In all the matches, even in Romania the other day, it was obvious that Romania didn’t look bad until the red card. Let’s leave speculation aside; we have our goals, and if we perform the way we want, it can be a big step toward a top-two finish.”
“We are feeling good, and we try to recuperate after every match. We know how important it is to win against Poland. We want to finish this international window in the best possible way.”
Gigović reflected on Edin Džeko’s retirement and the message the captain left behind away from the cameras and public.
“Edin told us to enjoy; he told us that we are the leaders of this generation. I can’t say enough good things about him. We all see how much he has given to this jersey and the country. It was my honor, especially against Sweden, to play in his final match. I am truly grateful.”
“I haven’t seen him since Friday. I think he has to go to Germany today. I would be happy if he showed up so we could see him. I am not a fan of goodbyes. We will still be seeing each other. The most important thing is that we stay friends who support one another,” Barbarez said.
Barbarez also commented on Robert Lewandowski’s absence.
“We are experiencing the very same thing with Robert as we are with Edin. These are the personalities people come to watch, and every opponent has immense respect for them. Of course we will miss Robert, and psychologically it might be easier for us, but I am sorry that Robert won’t be there. I’ve always loved seeing those great players on the pitch.”
Zlomislić could return as a goalkeeper.
“Martin is almost fully recovered. If he isn’t feeling any pain, he will definitely be in goal, and if not, Salko will step in. That has already been communicated, and I think that’s only fair.“
