Basic’s late penalty gives Bosnia victory over Poland as post-Dzeko era begins

The result at Bilino Polje leaves Sergej Barbarez’s side second in their League B group with eight points from four matches, two behind Sweden, who beat Romania on the same evening.

Chances at both ends

Bosnia threatened as early as the second minute when Ermedin Demirovic’s delivery found Sead Kolasinac in a promising position, but his effort was blocked.

The hosts came close again midway through the first half when a Polish defender almost turned Ermin Mahmic’s cross into his own net, forcing goalkeeper Marcin Bulka to intervene.

Poland’s best opportunity before the break required a crucial goal-line clearance from Nikola Katic. Karol Swiderski appeared poised to score after an initial effort was blocked, but Katic kept the match goalless.

Bosnia began the second half strongly and had the ball in the net in the 48th minute through Haris Tabakovic. The goal was disallowed because Demirovic, who was offside, was judged to have interfered with play.

Bulka then denied Demirovic from close range in the 57th minute.

VAR review brings breakthrough

Barbarez introduced Esmir Bajraktarevic and Benjamin Tahirovic, with Bajraktarevic later helping create the decisive opening.

Bosnia had an earlier penalty appeal rejected following a VAR check, but another incident in the closing stages brought the breakthrough.

Bajraktarevic broke down the right and delivered into the penalty area, where Jovo Lukic was brought down. French referee Jeremie Pignard reviewed the footage at the pitchside monitor before awarding a penalty.

Basic converted in the 84th minute, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Poland pushed for an equaliser, with Piotr Zielinski firing over the bar from distance in the 87th minute, but goalkeeper Martin Zlomislic and Bosnia’s defence held firm.

Winning start to a new chapter

With two group matches remaining, Bosnia remain firmly in contention near the top of the standings.

The victory also marked a significant moment for a team beginning a new chapter after the departure of long-serving captain and record scorer Dzeko: their first match following his farewell ended with three points in Zenica.