Sassuolo Defender Muharemovic: Respect for Italy After Bosnia's World Cup Playoff Victory
Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic displayed graciousness following Bosnia's World Cup playoff triumph over Italy. He offered kind words for the nation where he has built his club career, even as he celebrated the realization of a lifelong dream for his home country.
Speaking to Swiss Italian channel RSI immediately after the dramatic penalty shootout win, Muharemovic carefully navigated the emotional complexities of eliminating a country for which he clearly holds genuine affection.
"My dream was to play at the World Cup with Bosnia, the greatest dream for all of us," he shared.
"All my respect goes to Italy, my friends and brothers there."
Bosnia Star Muharemovic: 'I'm Very Happy in Italy, Never Lost Respect'
He was also keen to clarify comments from a previous interview that had reportedly been misinterpreted.
"I hope my words were not taken badly, because I have many friends and brothers there. I am very happy in Italy. I have never lost respect, I know where I come from and that I am humble. Italy is always in my heart."
Regarding the match itself, Muharemovic acknowledged how challenging the Azzurri made things, despite playing with ten men for the majority of the contest following Bastoni’s red card.
"They tried everything, even with one fewer player, and it was not easy to hold on for 120 minutes. I feel sorry for them."
However, his pride in Bosnia’s achievement was unmistakable.
"Bosnia is back and making itself known, this is only the beginning. We can show much more."
With the World Cup now on the horizon, his message was simple: "We are ready. Now we celebrate, then we think about the World Cup."
Fresh materials — Football news
Italy's Euro 2028 Prospects: Promising Young Talent and Key Victories
Italy defeated Turkiye 3-1 in Bologna, securing a seeded position for the Euro 2028 draw. This victory places them one point ahead of Belgium before upcoming matches against France and Belgium in November. Coach Roberto Mancini made significant changes to the lineup, with only Donnarumma an
Romano: ‘I Chose Italy With All My Heart, See Strong Team Moving Forward’
Alessandro Romano reaffirmed his desire to play for Italy, stating he made the choice “with all my heart.” He believes the team shows potential for future strength. The Cagliari midfielder started in the recent 3-1 win against Turkiye, his first start since the 2-0 home loss to Belgium. Pr
Mancini: 'Italy's lack of fluidity was predictable' after 9 changes vs Turkiye
Roberto Mancini expected Italy to lose some fluidity after making nine changes in their 3-1 victory against Turkiye. He noted that underestimating the Turkish side would be the biggest mistake, a warning that proved valid as Vincenzo Montella's team controlled the first half. Following seve
Calafiori: First Italy Goal in Bologna Felt Fated, Thanks Bonucci for Set Piece Instruction
Riccardo Calafiori believes his first Italy goal, scored in Bologna, was destined to happen. He also credited Leonardo Bonucci for the set play tactic used against Turkiye, joking about Bonucci's ego. Following nine changes from the previous match against France, the team displayed a less
Scamacca Thrilled with First Italy Goal in Three Years
Gianluca Scamacca declared himself 'very happy' after scoring his first goal for Italy in three years, contributing to the team's 3-1 Nations League win against Turkiye. The Italian team began slowly against Turkiye, who were at the bottom of Nations League Group A, requiring early saves
Montella: Unwavering on Team's Potential, Rejects Unjustified Criticism
Vincenzo Montella, ahead of Turkiye's Nations League fixture against Italy, stated he "does not want to think negatively." He also declared, "I cannot accept illogical criticism." The match is scheduled for Monday at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna, with kickoff at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST). The