Hasan Salihamidzic, a former winger for Juventus, has identified two promising talents from Bosnia and Herzegovina who could pose a significant challenge to Italy in their upcoming World Cup play-off final. He also issued a caution to the Azzurri, remarking that the national team’s performance often mirrors that of Juventus.
Italy is scheduled to face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the crucial World Cup play-off final this evening.
Salihamidzic Foresees ‘Quality’ Display from Bosnia Against Italy
The match will unfold at Zenica’s Bilino Polje Stadium, where the spectator capacity has been reduced by 20% following incidents during Bosnia’s previous home match against Romania last November.
“Despite being a smaller stadium with a diminished capacity, the atmosphere promises to be extraordinary,” commented Salihamidzic, who represented both Juventus and Bosnia during his playing career. He further stated, “The local supporters will serve as an additional player, and then the quality of play on the field will speak for itself. Even if some might doubt it, our team genuinely possesses talent.”
Among the most exciting prospects within the Bosnian squad are Kerim Alajbegovic, 18, and Esmir Bajraktarevic, 21.
Salihamidzic observed, “While I am uncertain if Alajbegovic will be in the starting lineup, he is an exceptional generational talent with an undoubtedly bright future. Experienced figures like Dzeko are invaluable to this team, but he’s certainly not the only crucial player.”
“We have numerous young players who, when they hit their stride, are capable of single-handedly turning games around,” he explained. “Bajraktarevic is steadily gaining recognition at PSV, and Demirovic, though slightly older, has become a vital component for Stuttgart.”
He concluded by noting, “The Azzurri are presently experiencing a challenging period; Italian football as a whole has been weaker compared to previous eras, a trend not confined to just this year. For me, Juventus, a club I deeply cherish and will always support as a Bianconero, serves as the ultimate barometer for the state of football.”
“When Juventus performs at its peak, the national team tends to follow suit, and the reverse is also true,” he elaborated. “I am confident that both Juventus and Italy will eventually regain their top form, though I hope this happens after Bosnia’s play-off. Qualifying for the World Cup in America holds immense importance for our nation.”