Luck turned its back on us: Brave BiH footballers defeated by France in the 92nd minute

(Patria) - In the third round of qualifications for U21 Euro 2025, Bosnia and Herzegovina hosted the French national team at Grbavica and ultimately lost a valuable point in stoppage time (1:2).

The French squad, led by young stars from PSG, Chelsea, Lille, Lyon... was the big favorite, but the team coached by the legendary Thierry Henry did not shine at the most beautiful stadium in BiH, although with a bit of luck, they ultimately achieved a big win.

The BiH lads were not intimidated by their rivals; on the contrary, they played bravely from the very beginning and had a good chance in the 11th minute. Bašić crossed from a free kick, and Muharemović shot from close range, but the ball went just wide of the French goal.

In the 23rd minute, a three-on-one counter for the BiH footballers; Čavić tried to shoot from the center and only passed the ball to goalkeeper Restes, despite having two free teammates, thus ruining a perfect chance.

We took the lead in the 28th minute. The lone Admir Bristrić "invented" a goal. First, his shot was saved by the French goalkeeper, and then he found the net on his second attempt.

Unfortunately, the joy lasted only four minutes. Barcola crossed low from the left, and Cherki scored to make it 1:1.

In the second half, Cherki threatened Šahinović, followed by a good run and shot from Akliouche, but the talented Sarajevo goalkeeper saved it. In the 81st minute, a great chance for France, and Šahinović saved. He first stopped a low shot and then caught a cross.

It seemed we would finally get our first point, and then a cold shower in the 92nd minute. Substitute Kalimuendo scored from a cross from the right, bringing the Tricolors victory. In the 96th minute, Doue received a second yellow card and had to leave early, but it didn't affect the final result.

Next, we have an away match in Cyprus where we can count on three points, and if we achieve them, we will at least slightly join the race for the top two positions in the group. That match will be played on October 17th.

The current standings look like this: Slovenia has six points, France and Austria have four each, Cyprus has one, and BiH still has no points.

BiH - France 1:2 (Bristrić 28' / Cherki 32', Kalimuendo 92')

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Šahinović; Karić, Muharemović, Šušić, Šuta; Sučić, Bašić; Omerović, Čavić, Buljubašić; Bristrić.

France: Restes; Merlin, Magassa, Yoro, Sildillia; Lepenant, Ugochukwu, Zaire-Emery; Cherki, Barcola, Wahi.