Bosnia and Italy are playing a match in Zenica for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The Bosnians are one step away from playing in their second World Cup, while the Italians do not want to miss out on the global event for the third consecutive time.
We expect to see a match with a lot of tension and excitement for both teams, and particularly home fans. Here is the preview of this decisive match, along with our predictions for Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Italy.
Facts
- Bosnia has only one defeat on the way to the World Cup and four consecutive matches without losing. Between the group stage and the play-off semi-final, Bosnia has a record of five wins, three draws, and only one defeat.
- They were only 13 minutes away from qualifying directly. Bosnia finished second in their group behind Austria. On the last matchday, they were winning in Vienna until the home team equalised in the 77th minute, leaving the Bosnians out of the top spot.
- Italy has won four of their six group matches, but finished second. The Italian national team closed Group I with 12 points (four wins and two losses). The problem is that those two setbacks came against Norway, which ended up in first place.
- They scored 16 goals in six qualifying matches. Italy averaged 2.67 goals per match in the group stage.
- Italy won the play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland 2-0, taking the first step toward avoiding a third consecutive World Cup without Italy's presence.
Betting Tip: Bosnia and Herzegovina - Italy
- Betting Tip: Italy to win
- Odds: 1.55
Bosnia caused an upset by eliminating Wales in Cardiff, with the match decided in a penalty shootout. Italy, meanwhile, eliminated Northern Ireland with a 2-0 victory.
The two teams have faced each other six times throughout their history, with a record of four wins for the Italians, one draw, and one victory for the Bosnians.
This could be a historic day for the Bosnian national team. However, Italy cannot afford another World Cup failure. While Wales could have been a more feared opponent for the Azzurri, it won't be easy for Gattuso's men. We still believe their experience should prevail in this type of match.
That's why we see value in the odds on an Italy win, given the reasonable prices.
Alternative Betting Markets for Bosnia vs Italy
Bosnia vs Italy is one of those matches where the emotion and tension of what is at stake can lead to unpredictable situations on the field. That’s why there are some other interesting options for wagering on this match.
Both Teams to Score
The importance of the match will bring tension and caution about not making a mistake in defence. This may precisely lead to the match opening up after the first goal. Bosnia has scored in eight of its last 10 home games, the same statistical record that Italy has as an away team. The BTTS odds sit at 2.20.
Edin Dzeko to Score
The veteran Bosnian striker continues to be the main attacking reference for his national team, as he scored the goal that sent the semi-final match against Wales into extra time. At 40, no one is more motivated than him to take his team to a World Cup, so we find it impossible to pass up the odds of 4.30 on the probability of him scoring a goal.
Draw at Halftime
The World Cup playoff semi-final matches were tremendously equal in the first 45 minutes. All the teams felt the weight of the enormous responsibility at stake. The matches only opened up in the second halves, which is why we see value in a draw at halftime, priced at 2.20.
