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Date: October 11, 2024
Venue: Bilino Polje Stadium, Zenica
Attendance: 12,000
Summary:
Germany displayed their superior quality as they defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 3-1 in an international friendly in Zenica. A strong second-half performance saw Germany seal victory after a tense first half, where the hosts gave a spirited display.
First Half:
Bosnia and Herzegovina started the game brightly, buoyed by their passionate home crowd. They pressed high and created a few early chances. Miralem Pjanić pulled the strings from midfield, and Edin Džeko was a constant threat up front. The hosts took the lead in the 24th minute when Džeko met a Pjanić cross with a header, sending it past Marc-André ter Stegen to make it 1-0.
Germany responded swiftly and dominated possession but found it hard to break down a resolute Bosnian defense. Their patience paid off just before halftime when Kai Havertz pounced on a loose ball in the box after a corner and slotted it home to equalize in the 42nd minute.
Second Half:
Germany came out of the break with greater intensity. Julian Brandt and Leroy Sané caused problems on the wings, stretching Bosnia’s defense. In the 58th minute, Jamal Musiala completed a flowing team move, finishing off a pass from Havertz to make it 2-1.
Bosnia struggled to regain control of the game as Germany’s midfield, led by Joshua Kimmich and İlkay Gündoğan, dominated proceedings. Germany sealed the victory in the 76th minute when Leroy Sané cut inside from the left and unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner, leaving the Bosnian keeper with no chance.
Despite some late efforts from Džeko and substitute Amer Gojak, Bosnia couldn’t find a way back into the game, and Germany saw out the match comfortably.
Key Players:
Jamal Musiala: The young midfielder was a standout, linking play beautifully and scoring the crucial second goal.
Leroy Sané: His pace and dribbling were a constant threat, and his stunning goal put the game beyond Bosnia’s reach.
Edin Džeko: The veteran striker showed his class with a well-taken goal and led the line impressively for Bosnia.
Manager’s Comments:
Germany’s Manager, Julian Nagelsmann: “It was a solid performance. Bosnia made it difficult for us in the first half, but we showed our quality in the second half. I’m pleased with the team’s effort and the way we controlled the game.”
Bosnia’s Manager, Savo Milošević: “We started well and gave a good fight, but Germany’s quality made the difference. We have things to improve, but we’ll take positives from this match.”
Next Fixture:
Germany heads into their next competitive fixture with confidence, while Bosnia will look to bounce back in their upcoming European Qualifier.
