Sweden Faces Bosnian Squad
Slovakia-Sweden traveled to Zenica in September with a depleted squad battling illness and managed a draw, Expressen reported. Head coach Graham Potter now faces Bosnia and Herzegovina with a star-studded lineup for the upcoming return match.
Alexander Isak is ready for action after a hot run of form in the Premier League. Dejan Kulusevski also returns following a lengthy injury layoff, alongside Anthony Elanga and Yasin Ayari.
Tackling the Swedish Threat
Bosnian coach Sergej Barbarez addressed media questions on the eve of the match regarding how his team plans to contain Isak. The squad must handle the threat without suspended Leeds standout Tarik Muharemovic.
“It would be amateurish to just focus on Isak,” said Sergej Barbarez, head coach.
Barbarez pointed to the collective strength of the visiting team during his press conference. He said that Sweden produces players through an effective development system and boasts numerous individual threats.
“Sweden has too many good players. I have all respect for the Swedish national team,” Barbarez told Expressen.
Key players contribute to both team rosters
Viktor Gyökeres delivered a standout performance during the previous fixture in Zenica. Barbarez maintained that his defensive strategy involves managing all eleven opponents rather than isolating specific players.
The Bosnian coach highlighted several key contributors within his own roster who compete regularly at high levels. Esmir Bajraktarevic plays for PSV, while Kerim Alajbegovic develops within Juventus. Amar Dedic, Ermedin Demirovic, Nikola Katic, Sead Kolasinac, and Denis Gigovic form the backbone of the home team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Swedish squad depleted during the September match?
Illness swept through the team before the first match in Zenica, leaving the coaching staff with fewer available players.
Who is missing for Bosnia and Herzegovina in defense?
Tarik Muharemovic is suspended for the return fixture after earning regular minutes with Leeds United.
Which players return to the Swedish lineup?
Alexander Isak, Dejan Kulusevski, Anthony Elanga, and Yasin Ayari are all available for selection under Graham Potter.
Keep reading