Bosnia and Herzegovina claimed a landmark UEFA Nations League triumph on foreign soil, dismantling Romania with a commanding 4-2 performance that marked their first away victory in eight years. The emphatic win saw Sergej Barbarez's squad showcase clinical finishing and defensive solidity, despite competing in front of empty stands due to UEFA sanctions imposed on Romania for fan behaviour during a 2024 Kosovo fixture. The visitors' ability to overcome such circumstances underscored the quality of their display, as they ascended to the top of League B Group 4 with a resounding statement of intent.
Bosnia's attacking prowess was evident from the opening exchanges, though they spurned an early opportunity when Haris Tabakovic fired wide after latching onto Ivan Basic's precision through ball. The breakthrough soon arrived through different means, as Esmir Bajraktarevic's exceptional cross found Armin Gigovic, who converted via header. Tarik Muharemovic extended the advantage from close range following Basic's corner delivery, putting the visitors firmly in control. Romania briefly threatened a comeback when Daniel Birligea powered home from Lisav Eissat's cross, yet Bosnia's goalkeeper Ionut Radu's error—spilling a Kerim Alajbegovic effort—handed Tabakovic an easy finish to restore a two-goal margin before the interval.
The pattern continued after half-time as Bosnia added a fourth through Ermin Mahmic, who capitalized on another Bajraktarevic cross from a central position. Alexandru Cicaldau's long-range effort provided Romania some consolation, but the hosts rarely threatened thereafter. Despite Daniel Birligea spurning a late chance and seeing an earlier goal ruled out for offside, Gheorghe Hagi's side could muster little resistance. Ermedin Demirovic's wayward finish from inside the area exemplified Bosnia's control, as Romania conceded four goals on home soil for the first time since 1977.
The comprehensive victory underscores a crucial turning point for Bosnia and Herzegovina, who had won just one of their previous six matches before this fixture. With momentum firmly established and top spot secured in Group 4, Barbarez's squad will carry genuine confidence into their remaining Nations League campaign. For Romania, languishing at the bottom of the group following this heavy defeat, the challenge of rebuilding begins immediately.