For illustration purposes only (©Gallo Images)
For illustration purposes only (©Gallo Images)

Next level – Italian soldier spying on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s preparations?

Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 31.03.26. | 10:38

It seems Italy has its own James Bond – a man, believed to have been sent by the Italian side, was spotted at the Bosnia national team’s training session

The Football Association of Bosnia and Herzegovina has raised concerns after an alleged incident involving a soldier from the European Union Force (EUFOR), reportedly Italian, who was seen recording one of their training sessions ahead of the decisive World Cup play-off clash between the two nations.

Bosnia are set to welcome the four-time world champions to Bilino Polje in Zenica on Tuesday evening, having secured their place in the final with a tense penalty shootout victory over Wales in the semi-finals.

However, the build-up to the match has been overshadowed by controversy. According to reports, a EUFOR soldier was noticed filming the team’s training session in Butmir on Sunday, positioned behind a fence while capturing footage of the players during drills.

It is believed that after more than 15 minutes of recording, security personnel and staff intervened, approaching the individual and asking him to stop.

Bosnian outlet Sportsport.BA claim the incident may have been a deliberate effort by Italy to gather insight into Bosnia’s tactical approach, as the Azzurri push to reach their first World Cup in over a decade. The Bosnian FA has reportedly filed a formal complaint with EUFOR following the episode.

Concerns have also been raised about the training facilities in Butmir, which reportedly lack adequate security for an occasion of this magnitude. With the session open to spectators, only a low metal fence separated the squad from those watching.

An image circulating online shows a man in a camouflage jacket standing behind the barrier, though there is currently no confirmation linking him to the Italian national team or to Gennaro Gattuso’s coaching staff.

Italy come into the fixture aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since 2014, when they exited at the group stage. Their 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in Bergamo last week has made them strong favourites to advance to North America. Still, their celebrations after Bosnia’s win over Wales sparked criticism, with some accusing the team of acting with “disrespect and arrogance.”

tags

2026 FIFA World Cup QualifiersItalyBosnia & Herzegovina

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