Speaking to the media representatives were head coach Goran Melher and captain Srđan Ivanković, who will lead the team tomorrow.

 

Coach Melher: “We’ve had solid preparations despite some injuries and flu setbacks. Since yesterday, we’re all back, healthy, and ready. This is our most important match to stay in contention for second place and a play-off spot. The same goes for our opponent. Switzerland is a tough team; even Spain struggled to break them down before scoring in the 12th minute. We’ll give everything to take three points. I believe we’re the more experienced and professional team. Our approach will be slightly different than against England and Spain. We’ll aim to press them high in order to take an early lead. The atmosphere against England in Zenica was fantastic. I’m sure it’ll be the same tomorrow, and our fans will be our extra boost.”

 

Ivanković: “I believe we’ll be even better compared to the last camp. Our goal is to keep improving in all aspects. Motivation is high, and we feel great here at the Training Center. We all look forward to these gatherings, and the atmosphere is excellent with a professional approach. If we carry that mindset into the game, we can keep growing as a team. Props to the coach and staff for giving young players a chance. There’s a lot of talent among them, and we, the older guys, do our best to help them settle in. This whole environment pushes us to give our best and get good results.”

 

Ivanković also added: “Big matches come with pressure, but we’re professionals. Wearing this jersey and crest comes with responsibility; however that pressure can also be motivation. Our focus has to be at the highest level, especially in front of our fans, because their support gives us extra strength. I hope they recognize our effort on the court and understand how much their support means to us. I believe our shared energy will be even stronger in upcoming matches.”

 

At the end of the conference, Ivanković presented a signed national team jersey to the father of Vedad Hadžić, a young boy who recently underwent cancer surgery in Istanbul. This gesture symbolized the team’s support for Vedad and his family, showing solidarity and unity beyond sports. 

 

BiH-Switzerland match starts tomorrow, February 4, at 20:15 hours at the Husejin Smajlović sports arena in Zenica. Entry is free, and the match will be broadcast live on Arena Sport TV.