Barbarez before Panama: We wanted to feel a non-European style of play, Džeko likely to miss the duel in St. Louis

(Patria) - The Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team will play a friendly match against Panama tomorrow in St. Louis.

Selector Sergej Barbarez spoke at the press conference ahead of the match about the team's condition, the opponent, and expectations before the final test before the World Cup.

At the beginning of his address, Barbarez thanked the media and fans for their support.

- I am glad that you took on this long journey to America to support us and report, I hope we will spend as much time together as possible - said the selector.

Speaking about preparations, he emphasised that the team has worked well, but also that he wants to test the team against a non-European national team.

- Of course we are ready, we have trained and we are eager for matches, especially against a team that is not from Europe, to feel that mentality and style of play - says Barbarez.

He also revealed the team's medical bulletin. Captain Edin Džeko will most likely not be in the squad for the match against Panama.

La selección de Bosnia Herzegovina 🇧🇦 realiza su entrenamiento en el Energizer Park donde mañana se mide a Panamá 🇵🇦 a las 2pm.

La gran figura Edin Dzeko será baja para el partido ante los panameños.@deportes_rpc @TReporta pic.twitter.com/dRkLtWfyBj

— Edgardo Vidal (@EVidal1507) June 5, 2026

- As for Edin, he will most likely not be in the squad tomorrow. He has injury problems and was given rest to be ready for Canada. Ivan Šunjić is the only one still off the field, but there will be no problems - explained the selector.

He added that he expects a demanding match and a different style of play from Panama.

- The first wish was to play against a non-European team to see their style of play and mentality. These are challenges that interest me as a coach - said Barbarez.

Speaking about the arrival and stay in St. Louis, he emphasised the importance of support from the Bosnian-Herzegovinian diaspora, as well as the team's physical adjustment.

- We felt the impact of the Bosnian people here, but that is our job - autographs and photos. At the beginning it was challenging due to the rhythm, but now everything is fine.

It is a great honour for me to be here. We have a responsibility towards the entire country. When the anthem plays, those 30 seconds are my dream and my pride - concluded Barbarez.

The friendly match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Panama will be played tomorrow in St. Louis starting at 21:00, with a live broadcast on BHRT.