THREE PLAYERS QUESTIONABLE Barbarez: We are optimistic, but also realistic that Wales are the favorites

(Patria) - Coach Sergej Barbarez addressed the media today ahead of the upcoming playoff match between the Bosnia and Herzegovina National Football Team and the Wales National Football Team, stating that preparations have already begun and the team atmosphere inspires optimism.

Barbarez emphasized that the players have been in the preparation process since yesterday.

“Player preparations began yesterday, we have been here for a few days. Denis Hadžikadunić, who has re-injured himself, has joined the injured Adrijan Barišić and Haris Hajradinović. In a joint discussion, we decided that he will not be with us, and we remain with 24 players. Everyone is willing, smiling, many of us already had the first training session voluntarily last night, and we hope everyone will arrive today,” said the coach.

Speaking about the players' form and preparation time, Barbarez pointed out that the national team had an unusual schedule.

“We perhaps had too much time. A four-month break, then three days to prepare the team. I have never traveled and watched more matches. I have publicly announced some things, and many I have not. Overall, I am more than satisfied, and some players also rested this weekend. I would prefer that no one plays on the last weekend before gathering,” he said.

He added that there are some question marks regarding the physical fitness of certain footballers.

“We have some question marks with three players – Esmir Bajraktarević, Benjamin Tahirović, and Samed Baždar. Samed just played and scored a goal, and we will see about Esmir and Benjamin, I hope they are physically ready.”

The coach also revealed that he and his associate Saša Papac visited England to watch potential national team players and opponents live.

“Saša Papac and I were in England, we watched three or four matches. These are matches where the opponent is serious, where we want to be. We believe in ourselves and realistically believe we can achieve something,” Barbarez stated.

When asked about the Wales national team and any potential fear or underestimation of the opponent, the coach said that the key is a realistic approach.

“Players don't need much explanation. They are at a level where they can assess any national team. For me, reality is always written in capital letters, and it will be the same now,” concluded the BiH coach.

The playoff match Wales - BiH will be played on March 26 in Cardiff, at the Cardiff City Stadium, starting at 20:45 our time.