At Bilino Polje on 15 November 2025, Bosnia & Herzegovina host Romania in a high-stakes qualifier that could determine the fate of second place in the group. Both sides still have their destiny in play, though the margin for error differs sharply.
Bosnia Can Secure Second with a Win
Bosnia remain in control of their position, sitting second and knowing that a victory would guarantee at least a playoff spot. They began the qualification campaign with impressive momentum - four straight wins, including a 1–0 success away to Romania. However, their recent form has dipped. A 1–2 home defeat to Austria and a 2–2 draw in Cyprus have reopened the race. Compounding the concern, Bosnia have lost six of their last nine home matches, a surprisingly fragile record for a team with aspirations of qualification. Even their recent home wins - narrow victories against San Marino and Cyprus - have lacked conviction.
Romania Facing a Do-or-Die Scenario
Romania arrive with everything still to fight for. Sitting three points behind Bosnia, they know that defeat ends their hopes of a top-two finish. Their morale, however, received a significant boost after their 1–0 triumph over group leaders Austria, a result that showcased their organisation and tactical discipline. Romania have also been a strong travelling side, losing only once in their last thirteen away matches - and that loss, ironically, came against Austria earlier in the campaign. Their last visit to Bosnia, three years ago in the Nations League, ended in defeat, but the context and stakes are very different now.
Prediction: 1–1 Draw
With Bosnia strong enough to compete but inconsistent at home, and Romania resilient but under intense pressure, this matchup sets up for a tight, tense contest. Both sides have enough quality to score, yet neither has shown the stability needed to dominate. The prediction is a 1–1 draw, keeping the battle for second place alive into the final round.
