Miralem Pjanic Puzzled by Italy's Celebration, Warns of Tough Bosnia Encounter

Former Juventus and Roma midfielder Miralem Pjanic has expressed his bewilderment regarding Italy's celebrations after Bosnia and Herzegovina secured a victory over Wales. Pjanic suggested that the Italian squad will need significant character when they face Bosnia in Zenica.

The ex-Serie A star commented on the Italian team's reaction to Bosnia's win, stating, "I don't understand why they celebrated."

He added with a smile, "Bosnia awaits them with open arms. We shall see how it unfolds. Italy is Italy, and we hold them in the highest regard, but anything can happen."

Pjanic underscored the anticipated difficulty of the upcoming match, saying, "They will need to perform well in a hostile environment. They'll require personality to secure a victory in Zenica." He also conveyed that the atmosphere in his home country on Tuesday would be far from welcoming for the Azzurri.

This context arises from Italy's 2-0 home victory over Northern Ireland, which qualified them for the World Cup play-off Final. Bosnia and Herzegovina similarly advanced to the final after defeating Wales in a penalty shootout.

Footage showing several Italian players, including Federico Dimarco, celebrating Bosnia's victory rapidly went viral on social media. Dimarco later clarified his reaction in a press conference, asserting he was not arrogant and felt it was inappropriate for their celebration to be broadcast live.

Pjanic, who scored 42 goals in 281 Serie A appearances during his time with Roma and Juventus, retired last year after winning four Serie A titles with the Bianconeri.

The World Cup play-off Final between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina is scheduled to take place in Zenica on Tuesday, March 31, at 20:45 CET.