Bosnia and Herzegovina secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Poland in their UEFA Nations League encounter at Bilino Polje on Monday, with Ivan Bašić converting a late penalty to settle the contest.
Poland enjoyed more possession and created the greater number of chances during the opening stages, but Bosnia remained disciplined defensively and frustrated the visitors in the final third.
The hosts gradually grew into the game after the break, while Poland’s attacking threat diminished following Matty Cash’s departure through injury in the 63rd minute.
Bosnia were eventually rewarded in the 84th minute when substitute Jovo Lukić won a penalty.
Bašić stepped up and calmly sent his left-footed effort into the top-right corner to give the hosts the lead.
Poland pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Bosnia’s defence held firm to secure all three points.
Despite dominating possession and finishing with 18 shots to Bosnia’s nine, Poland struggled to make their opportunities count.
They managed only four shots on target and missed two major chances during the match.
Bosnia, meanwhile, produced a determined defensive display, recording 34 clearances and 12 interceptions as they withstood sustained pressure from the visitors.
Bašić was the standout performer, combining his match-winning penalty with an impressive all-round display in midfield.
He completed 58 of 65 passes, made eight recoveries and three interceptions, helping Bosnia maintain their shape under pressure.
Goalkeeper Martin Zlomislić also played a key role, making three saves as Bosnia preserved their clean sheet and claimed a valuable Nations League victory.
