MYSTERIOUS ABOUT DŽEKO Barbarez ahead of Switzerland: We must be better or luckier, but we believe in victory

(Patria) - The head coach of the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team, Sergej Barbarez, addressed the media at the official press conference ahead of tonight's match against Switzerland in the second round of the group stage of the World Cup.

The first question concerned the health condition of Haris Tabaković, who had some issues in the previous days.

"Haris trained. He will be in the roster. It has become serious regarding his readiness, and that is the most important thing," Barbarez briefly stated.

Speaking about the next opponent, the Dragons' selector highlighted the vast experience of the Swiss national team.

"They are too experienced a team for pressure to have an impact on them. We know how and what can be done. Their ambitions are slightly stronger than ours. Tomorrow we play for three points, I don't see it as more important or the first match."

Barbarez also commented on Bosnia and Herzegovina's debut at the World Cup, when the Dragons drew with hosts Canada.

"When you have 24 debutants, that's not a normal thing. You play against the hosts. We warned that Canada is a good team, and we dealt with it. Our rule applies: we try to focus on ourselves and try to win the match."

One of the questions referred to the famous victory against Italy in Zenica, a match that marked the beginning of creating a new identity for the national team.

"Of course, the night in Zenica against Italy will always remain in our memory. That performance was something new for a team that was just being formed. It will always remain a big thing. In such matches, someone has to stay home. I wish Italy all the best in the future. Big greetings to Gennaro, he gave us huge respect in Zenica."

The selector believes that his coaching staff has a special advantage due to their rich international experience.

"Our attitude helps us. There are seven former national team players in the coaching staff. Surely we can give a lot to the players in psychological moments."

Barbarez confirmed that Ivan Šunjić is fully ready for the match.

"Šunjić is 100 percent ready. Whether he will start, we'll see. If we give our best as we have in the last two years, then we will progress. I am satisfied with the opening of the World Cup and I hope we continue on that path."

He was also asked whether Džeko will play, and he responded with a mysterious smile.

"I don't know, you'll see that tomorrow."

Finally, he sent a clear message ahead of the clash with the Swiss.

"We must be better or luckier to beat the Swiss. It will be a good match if we give our all. A lot depends on the opponent, the mood, and daily form. We hope that we will be the ones celebrating."

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Switzerland meet on Thursday at 9:00 PM, and a potential victory could bring the Dragons closer to advancing to the knockout stage of the World Cup.