Germany travels to the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Friday to face Bosnia-Herzegovina in a pivotal UEFA Nations League Group A3 match. Julian Nagelsmann’s squad aims to solidify their position atop the group, while the hosts seek their first victory in this year’s tournament.
Germany leads Group A3 on goal difference after a dominant 5-0 victory over Hungary and a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands. However, Die Mannschaft’s away form remains a concern, with only four wins in their last 13 matches outside German territory.
The German squad faces several key absences, including Arsenal’s Kai Havertz and Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala. Nagelsmann has called up uncapped players Jamie Leweling and Jonathan Burkardt to bolster the roster. Notably, Germany will debut a new goalkeeper, as none of the three called up – Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nubel, and Janis Blaswich – have previously represented the national team.
Bosnia-Herzegovina, under coach Sergej Barbarez, sits third in the group with one point from two matches. The Dragons opened their campaign with a 5-2 loss to the Netherlands before securing a goalless draw against Hungary. Bosnia seeks to build on their three-game home winning streak in the Nations League.
Veteran striker Edin Dzeko, 38, continues to lead Bosnia’s attack. The Fenerbahce forward has scored nine goals in 13 games across all competitions this season. He’s likely to be partnered upfront by Stuttgart’s Ermedin Demirovic, while former Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac anchors the backline.
Despite Bosnia’s home advantage, Germany enters the match as clear favorites. Nagelsmann’s side will look to exploit Bosnia’s recent defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded five goals in their opening Nations League fixture.
This match holds significant implications for both teams. A win would strengthen Germany’s position ahead of their crucial clash with the Netherlands, while Bosnia desperately needs points to avoid the threat of relegation to League B.
As the Nations League campaign approaches its midway point, this encounter in Zenica could prove pivotal in shaping the final standings of Group A3.