Sarajevo jeopardized European spot with winless streak, Široki Brijeg defeated them today

(Patria) - Footballers of Široki Brijeg defeated the Sarajevo team 1-0 at Pecara in the derby of the 25th round of the Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina, thus further complicating the fight for places leading to European competitions.

The match had a turbulent prelude even before the very beginning. After Dražen Marić was appointed as the main referee, the Koševo club publicly requested his recusal, recalling controversial decisions from the autumn part of the season at Pecara. However, there was no change of referee, and the return of Sarajevo fans to the Pecara stadium after several years also attracted additional attention.

The guests were more dangerous from the very start. As early as the second minute, Adem Ljajić had a great chance after a pass from João Carlos, but his attempt was stopped by the home team's goalkeeper Renato Josipović. Sarajevo continued to threaten, while Široki had their first serious chance around the half-hour mark when Hubert Sobol hit the post. Shortly after, Agon Elezi also tried, but Josipović was once again safe.

Before going into halftime, Sarajevo missed another great opportunity. Luka Menalo went alone against the goalkeeper, tried a lob shot to resolve the situation, but the ball did not end up in the net, so the break was taken without goals.

The decision came in the second half. In the 54th minute, after Slavko Bralić handled the ball, a free kick was awarded to the hosts from about 20 meters. Mato Stanić shot powerfully and precisely hit the net for what turned out to be the final 1-0.

After conceding the goal, Sarajevo's play significantly declined. Although the guests had more possession of the ball, they failed to create any serious chances until the end of the match, so the points remained at Pecara.

This victory brings Široki Brijeg back into serious contention for European spots, while Sarajevo remains in third position, but with a minimal lead over their rivals. The Maroon team has also continued its negative streak and has now gone five games without a win in all competitions, including their appearances in the BiH Cup.