After returning to Sarajevo, there is no shortage of optimism: Barbarez said they have been preparing for the grand final for two years

(Patria) - The national football team of Bosnia and Herzegovina returned to Sarajevo after last night's great victory in Cardiff over hosts Wales in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

A group of fans welcomed the Dragons, who are expecting the final of the play-offs against Italy on Tuesday, March 31st, in Zenica (8:45 PM).

The winner of that match will qualify for the final tournament of the World Cup, which will be held from June 11th to July 19th in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Coach Sergej Barbarez said that it is good that they have a five-day break and that it will be enough for both rest and preparation for the decisive duel with the Italians.

"We will be ready. We have been preparing for this kind of match for two years. For me, this is the first real grand final," Barbarez emphasizes.

He stresses that Italy is a big challenge and that they will have to play at a higher level than in Wales.

"However, when it comes to emotions, will, and belief in success... It's all at the maximum level," said the coach of the Dragons.

A large number of fans, especially the youngest ones who wanted to take pictures with Edin Džeko and other players, welcomed the Dragons at the airport.

Tickets for the final match are sold out, and there is no doubt that the Dragons will have unprecedented support in BiH, especially in Zenica and at Bilino Polje.