ZENICA, Bosnia and Herzegovina – Bosnia and Herzegovina received a significant boost ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup play-off final against Italy as Atalanta defender Sead Kolasinac is reportedly fit to start, according to reports from training sessions. The match, set to be played at Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica, is a winner-takes-all encounter for a place in the 2026 World Cup.
Kolasinac, 32, had been a doubt after limping off during Bosnia and Herzegovina’s penalty shootout victory over Wales on Thursday. The team secured their place in the playoff final after a 1-1 draw in Cardiff, followed by a 4-3 win on penalties. Concerns over his fitness prompted questions about coach Sergej Barbarez’s defensive options, but those worries appear to have been allayed.
The recovery of Kolasinac means Barbarez will have a fully available squad for the high-stakes match against Italy. This is a considerable advantage as Bosnia and Herzegovina aim to qualify for only their second-ever World Cup, having previously appeared at the tournament in 2014.
Kolasinac’s presence is particularly important given his experience and current form with Atalanta. He joined the Serie A club from Olympique Marseille in 2023 and has become a key figure in their defense. His ability to contribute both defensively and in attack will be vital against a strong Italian side. He currently plays as a centre-back, a position he has held consistently throughout his career.
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s squad also includes other players with Serie A experience, further bolstering their chances against Italy. Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic and veteran striker Edin Dzeko, who recently joined Schalke 04 after a stint with Fiorentina, add further quality and familiarity with Italian football. Dzeko, with over 70 international goals, remains a pivotal figure for the national team.
Italy, meanwhile, secured their place in the play-off final with a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland. The Azzurri will be looking to bounce back from their shock failure to qualify for the previous two World Cups and will present a formidable challenge for the home side. The match represents a crucial opportunity for both nations to secure a coveted spot at the tournament.
The game kicks off at 19:45 UK time (which is 20:45 local time in Zenica). For fans in the United States, that translates to 14:45 Eastern Time. The atmosphere at Stadion Bilino Polje is expected to be electric, with the home crowd fully behind their team as they chase a historic qualification.
Kolasinac’s journey to this point has been notable. Starting his youth career at Karlsruher SC in 2001, he progressed through the academies of TSG Hoffenheim, VfB Stuttgart, and Schalke 04 before making his professional debut with Schalke in 2012. He later had a spell with Arsenal, including a loan return to Schalke, before moving to Marseille and eventually settling at Atalanta. His international career began with Germany’s youth teams before switching allegiance to Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2013.
The availability of a fully fit Kolasinac significantly strengthens Bosnia and Herzegovina’s chances of overcoming Italy. His defensive solidity and potential to contribute in attacking phases will be crucial as they strive to reach the World Cup. The match promises to be a tense and closely contested affair, with both teams fully aware of the magnitude of the occasion.
Following Tuesday’s match, attention will immediately turn to the confirmed World Cup qualifying spots and the draw for the tournament itself. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, a victory would not only secure their place in the competition but also represent a significant achievement for the nation’s footballing ambitions.
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