Doborac ahead of match with Portugal: We also have our stars, they are aware of the responsibility and the jersey they wear

(Patria) - The Bosnia and Herzegovina handball team plays the first playoff match for the World Championship against Portugal on Thursday, and today a press conference was held by selector Damir Doborac and Benjamin Burić.

Although it is clear that Portugal is the big favorite in this two-legged tie, it is certain that our team will give their maximum to spring a surprise and qualify for the World Championship.

Doborac spoke today about the match awaiting our team on Thursday, away from home, while the return leg is scheduled a few days later in Tuzla.

"Regarding the gathering of 21 players who were on the list, unfortunately we will not be able to count on three of them: Josip Perić, Luka Perić, and goalkeeper Adi Ahmetašević. Instead, we have called up goalkeeper Bekir Čordalija, in place of Luka Perić we have Amar Kendić from Maglaj, and instead of Josip, Milan Vukšić has been called up," said Doborac.

Doborac expects the team to be complete during today, and although there is little time left before the departure to Portugal, they will try to prepare as best as possible.

"We know which team we have to face, and there is no need to waste words about that. But we also have our quality, our stars, and players who will certainly strive to show in this two-legged tie that they deserve to be here and that they care about the national team. It is one thing to talk, another to execute, but I believe the players are aware of the responsibility and the call here, and ultimately the jersey they wear. I believe that from that side we will show our true face."

He stated that he does not shy away from the fact that Portugal are favorites on paper, but that we also have our trumps.

"Certainly, they are favorites on paper, but we do not shy away from that and we will not give up easily. We have our trumps, we are short on time to arrange some things, but I sincerely hope we will give our maximum in terms of approach, and if they end up being better, we will shake their hand, but we will try not to allow them to qualify for the World Championship so easily. We also have a huge desire, and why shouldn't we go to the World Championship," says Doborac.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Burić said that important matches lie ahead of them.

"I saw young guys at training who are working excellently, and that makes me very happy. We are still waiting for the other players to arrive to work on tactical things, but from what I have seen so far, I am very satisfied and I am pleased with the positive atmosphere," says Burić.

"Two playoff matches are always dangerous for everyone, our big chance is that everyone considers Portugal the absolute favorite. I expect two tough matches, they have several world-class players and we will have to prepare for them. We have already agreed on some things about what and how we will do, and I expect two difficult matches."

The match in Portugal is played on Thursday starting at 8:30 PM, while the return leg is played on May 12 in Tuzla starting at 5:00 PM.