“Dzeko downplays controversy ahead of decisive match against Italy.”

Tension is in the air as Bosnia and Herzegovina prepares for a crucial clash with Italy in the quest for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. Edin Dzeko, the captain of the Bosnian national team, addressed the controversy that arose after a video on social media showed Federico Dimarco and other Italian players celebrating their victory over Wales in the penalty shootout. Dzeko’s statements are set to further fuel the rivalry between the two teams as they approach the decisive match.

“There is no problem with the video of Dimarco’s and the others’ celebration; everyone has their preferences. I also didn’t want to play against Italy. He wrote to me saying he didn’t want to offend, and I replied: ‘What are we talking about? No problem,'” revealed the experienced forward. However, Dzeko did not hesitate to criticize Italy’s attitude, questioning their confidence: “If a team that has won the World Cup four times is afraid to play in Wales, something is not right.”

The player, who has not competed in a World Cup since 2014, did not hold back in his criticism of the opposing team, reminding that Italy no longer has icons like Totti or Del Piero. “They have quality, but the players of other times were different,” he stated. Dzeko also pointed to a possible lack of intensity in Italian football, suggesting that this may be the reason why Italy has not been achieving results commensurate with its prestige. “Critics say that Italian football lacks intensity; perhaps that is why the results are not coming.”

In light of the complex tactical scenario ahead, Dzeko also made an appeal for the good reception of the Italian national team by Bosnian fans. “At the time of the Italian anthem, I hope everyone will applaud. Not everyone knows, but they were the first to come here to play a friendly match after the war, in 1996,” he recalled, emphasizing the importance of the history between the two teams.

With the match scheduled for Tuesday at 7:45 PM in Zenica, attention is now focused on what promises to be an electrifying clash. Bosnia and Herzegovina, led by Dzeko, is determined to show that it will not be an easy prey for the old guard of European football. What does the future hold for these two teams? The answer will be revealed soon, but one thing is certain: the pressure is high and the competitiveness, guaranteed.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.