Bosnia and Herzegovina has secured their spot in the World Cup play-off final by defeating Wales away on penalties in the semi-final. They are now set to face Italy next Tuesday in a highly anticipated clash.
Meanwhile, Italy, often referred to as the Azzurri, advanced to the final after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Bergamo. Goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean sealed their progression. Bosnia’s path was more dramatic, requiring a penalty shootout against Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium to earn their place.
In the semi-final encounter against Wales, Daniel James initially put the home side ahead in the 51st minute. However, former Fiorentina, Inter, and Roma star Edin Dzeko leveled the score for Bosnia in the 86th minute with a crucial late goal, forcing the game into extra time. With no further goals scored during the additional 30 minutes, the match was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout.
During the intense shootout, Wales’ goalkeeper Karl Darlow managed to save Ermedin Demirović’s opening penalty. Despite this early advantage, Wales faltered as Brennan Johnson blasted his shot over the bar and Neco Williams’ attempt was denied by Bosnian keeper Nikola Vasilj. Kerim Alajbegović then converted the decisive penalty, sending his national team to the final against the Azzurri.
The crucial World Cup play-off final between Bosnia and Italy is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, March 31. The match will be hosted at the Bilino Polje stadium in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The exact kick-off time is still awaiting confirmation, but it will be either at 18:00 CET or 20:45 CET.
For Italy, Sandro Tonali was recognized as the Man of the Match against Northern Ireland, having both opened the scoring for his team and provided the assist for Moise Kean’s goal.