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Federico Dimarco has downplayed criticism of his reaction to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s penalty win over Wales, insisting the scenes were misread as disrespectful. The Italy defender addressed the debate before the World Cup play-off final, where Italy meet Bosnia for a place at this summer’s tournament.

The Azzurri booked their own spot in Tuesday’s play-off by beating Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo. Bosnia progressed earlier on Thursday, edging Wales in a penalty shoot-out, setting up a decisive clash that will decide whether Italy return to the World Cup finals for the first time since 2014.

Reaction grew after cameras showed Dimarco and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario celebrating when Bosnia eliminated Wales. Many observers felt the images suggested Italy preferred facing Bosnia, who sit 66th in the FIFA World Rankings, rather than Wales, whose ranking and recent tournament record appear stronger.

Dimarco rejected that interpretation, stressing that his behaviour was not aimed at Bosnia or its supporters. “Im here, given that after the game against Northern Ireland, I was the protagonist of an incident,” said Dimarco at Saturday’s press conference. “I respect every club and every country; it was an instinctive reaction.”

The defender described how the squad watched the other semi-final together after completing their own match. Dimarco said he had a personal interest because of a former team-mate. “[Edin] Dzeko also plays for Bosnia. I played with him for two years, and I texted him. He replied to me, and Im happy to see him in the final.”

Dimarco insisted there was no lack of respect towards Bosnia or its population. “I didnt lack respect for Bosnia or the Bosnian people. It was said I was arrogant; with what right, since we havent been at the World Cup since 2014? How could I be arrogant?” he said.

Dimarco instead questioned how the images emerged from a private area. “That said, I believe it was disrespectful to be filmed in a context where there were also friends, family, and children present.” The incident has drawn attention in Italy, where expectations around behaviour remain high before major fixtures.

On the pitch, Gennaro Gattuso’s Italy now travel to Zenica for Tuesday’s play-off against Bosnia. Italy hope to end a 12-year absence from World Cup finals. Since the 2020-21 Nations League, when Italy collected four points from two meetings, the teams have faced each other only once more.

That most recent encounter came in June 2024, when Italy beat Bosnia 1-0 in an international friendly. The World Cup play-off, however, carries far greater weight, with both sides needing one win to secure qualification. Dimarco’s comments keep the focus on respect and preparation as Italy target a return to football’s biggest stage.

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