Overview
Federico Dimarco, Italy's defender, says he fully respects Bosnia and Herzegovina ahead of the crucial clash to seal World Cup 2026 qualification.
Dimarco had dominated headlines after Italy's 2-0 win over Northern Ireland last Thursday, with cameras catching him celebrating Bosnia and Herzegovina's win over Wales on penalties.
The Azzurri sealed their victory 2-0, and then followed the penalty shootout details on their phones during the World Cup playoff semifinal.
Reaction and Aftermath
Speaking at a Saturday press conference, he said: "I am here because I was a hero of an incident after the match against Northern Ireland. I respect every club and every country, and what happened was simply a reflex."
Dimarco added: "I was simply watching the penalties with my teammates. Dzeko plays for Bosnia and Herzegovina; we were teammates for two years, so I sent him a text; he replied, and I was glad to see him in the final."
Edin Dzeko's late goal against Wales forced extra time and penalties, sending Bosnia and Herzegovina through.
Closing Thoughts
Dimarco concluded: "I did not insult Bosnia or its people. Some said I was arrogant, but we haven't played in a World Cup since 2014. How could I be arrogant? Still, I find it disrespectful to be filmed in a context where friends, families, and children were present."
Also read: Dimarco — best Italian league title since Champions League dreams!
Punchline 1: If text messages could score, Dimarco would win the World Cup for wit alone.
Punchline 2: The only thing offside here is the joke about me being arrogant after 2014—talk about past due loyalty to the couch commentary gods.
