Dragons on the verge of a decisive step: Tonight against Romania for a World Cup dream

(Patria) - The Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team hosts Romania tonight in Zenica in the penultimate round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Follow the duel at Bilino Polje live from 8:35 PM on BHRT channels.

Bosnia and Herzegovina currently holds second place in Group H with 13 points. Triumphs in the remaining two matches – tonight against Romania and on Tuesday against Austria in Vienna – would bring the Dragons first place and direct qualification for the World Cup. Any other outcome, a draw or a loss, could significantly diminish their chances.

Captain Edin Džeko emphasizes that the team is aware of the pressure but believes they can meet the challenge.

"The guys know what this match means, especially the younger players who are still building their careers. The World Cup is a huge thing. We have trained well and we are ready. It is important to take responsibility and enter the match with a clear goal," said Džeko, adding that these matches could also determine his future national team career.

Coach Sergej Barbarez states that he does not perceive pressure as a burden, but as a privilege.

"We know the calculations, but we have our goal and plan. We are ready and we have done everything as it should be. We are playing at home, which is a big advantage, and we will try to get a win," Barbarez emphasized.

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Romania have played seven matches against each other so far: BiH won three, and Romania won four. In their last encounter, on March 21st in Bucharest, the Dragons celebrated a 1-0 victory with a goal by Armin Gigović in the 14th minute.

Tonight's match at Bilino Polje kicks off at 8:45 PM. The main referee is Englishman Michael Oliver, assisted by his compatriots Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring. The fourth official is Chris Kavanagh, while in the VAR room are Michael Salisbury and Peter Bankes, also from England.

After Romania, the Dragons will visit Austria in Vienna on Tuesday in the final qualifying match.

Current standings in Group H: Austria 15 points, Bosnia and Herzegovina 13, Romania 10, Cyprus 8, and San Marino with no points.