Miralem Pjanic has issued a stark warning to the Italian national team, cautioning them to expect an “infernal” atmosphere when they visit Bosnia and Herzegovina for their crucial World Cup play-off clash. He also highlighted veteran striker Edin Dzeko as Bosnia’s pivotal player.
The Azzurri secured their spot in the play-off final by comfortably defeating Northern Ireland 2-0. Bosnia and Herzegovina, meanwhile, earned their place after a tense penalty shootout victory over Wales in Cardiff, following a 1-1 draw that went to extra time.
These two nations will now compete head-to-head for a coveted spot at the upcoming World Cup. The decisive match is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, with a kick-off at 19:45 UK time at the Stadion Bilino Polje.
Pjanic Eager for Bosnia vs. Italy Showdown
Speaking on a Sky Sport Italia podcast, Pjanic, who has played for both Juventus and Roma, expressed his enthusiasm for the fixture. “Given the many Bosnian players who have featured in Italian football, everyone will be pleased with this match-up,” he remarked. He added that the victory against Wales had provided a much-needed boost in confidence for his national side, describing it as “fundamental.”
Only one of these two teams will ultimately qualify to participate in the World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA this summer.
“It will be a fantastic encounter between two teams that have had excellent qualifying campaigns,” Pjanic continued. “Bosnia has finally regained its self-esteem. This is a group that works tirelessly and shows great sacrifice on the field.” He praised the coach’s efforts, noting: “The coach has done tremendous work, both psychologically and tactically, instilling a strong sense of belonging.”
Pjanic believes Italy will be ill-prepared for the intense atmosphere of the Zenica stadium on Tuesday, describing it as a small yet oppressive arena.
“Officially, there are 11,000 seats, but I can assure you that when you’re there, it feels more like 30,000,” Pjanic explained. “It’s quite an old stadium, even the dressing room is rustic, making opponents feel somewhat uncomfortable visiting. There’s immense pressure, and it feels like the fans are right on the touchline. There isn’t even a proper VIP section, so even officials stand and sing along with everyone else. It’s going to be an infernal noise from start to finish.”
While Italian teams are familiar with Bosnian players from their time in Serie A, the familiarity goes both ways.
“Italy is accustomed to playing at this level, with figures like Gennaro Gattuso, Gigi Buffon, and Leonardo Bonucci in the background who have won major trophies,” Pjanic acknowledged. “We, however, possess a few individuals who can make a difference, and Dzeko remains the absolute reference point. He is the man capable of breaking deadlocks in tough situations, always ready in difficult moments, holding up the ball, and scoring those less aesthetically pleasing but decisive goals.”
Pjanic lauded Dzeko’s enduring quality: “His football intelligence is intact, despite the years passing.” He also singled out Amar Dedic as “a pure talent” who will serve the Bosnian team for the next 15 years, noting, “He’s afraid of nothing, ready to cross or shoot.”