Key Highlights
- Edin Dzeko retired from international football on his 152nd cap following Bosnia-Herzegovina’s 1-1 draw with Sweden.
- Kevin de Bruyne netted twice alongside a Romelu Lukaku goal as Belgium swept Turkey 3-0 to climb to second place in Group A1.
- Liverpool defender Milos Kerkez scored the solitary goal in Budapest to deliver Hungary a 1-0 Nations League victory against Georgia.
Edin Dzeko Concludes International Career in Emotional Zenica Farewell
An era came to an emotional close in Zenica as veteran striker Edin Dzeko announced his retirement from international football following Bosnia-Herzegovina’s 1-1 draw at home to Sweden. The 40-year-old former Manchester City forward, who was making his 152nd appearance for his country, was honored throughout the evening. Fireworks were launched in the 11th minute to commemorate his iconic shirt number 11, while supporters gave the team captain a rousing standing ovation when he was substituted off in the 62nd minute.
Dzeko came close to crowning his final international outing with a farewell strike late in the first half, but his effort was ruled out after officials determined the ball had gone out of play during the build-up. Sweden took the lead courtesy of Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres, but Kerim Alajbegovic scored an equalizer to salvage a point for the hosts. Following the final whistle, the tributes intensified with an official presentation ceremony, a guard of honour from teammates, and a coordinated drone display projecting messages of gratitude across the night sky as supporters showered Dzeko with soft toys during his lap of honour.
De Bruyne Inspires Belgium Win as Kerkez Secures Hungary Points
Elsewhere in the Nations League, Belgium picked up a commanding 3-0 victory over Turkey to climb into second place in Group A1. Kevin de Bruyne led the charge, scoring on either side of the interval to put Domenico Tedesco’s side firmly in control. Romelu Lukaku added a third to round off a dominant performance for the Belgians.
In Group B2, Hungary earned their first win of the current Nations League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Georgia in Budapest. Liverpool defender Milos Kerkez emerged as the match-winner, scoring the decisive goal to secure all three points. The victory leaves Hungary sitting in third place in Group B2, trailing group leaders Northern Ireland by three points.
Why This Matters
Edin Dzeko’s departure marks a major turning point for the Bosnia-Herzegovina national team, concluding an extraordinary tenure that spanned 152 appearances. As the nation transitions to a new generation led by emerging contributors such as Kerim Alajbegovic, the team must navigate a new tactical identity without their longtime focal point. Concurrently, Belgium’s comprehensive victory provides crucial momentum in their push for qualification in Group A1, while Hungary’s breakthrough win keeps them within striking distance of the top spot in Group B2.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many caps did Edin Dzeko earn before retiring?
Edin Dzeko made 152 international appearances for Bosnia-Herzegovina, concluding his national team career in the 1-1 draw against Sweden.
Who scored in the 1-1 draw between Bosnia-Herzegovina and Sweden?
Viktor Gyokeres scored Sweden’s opening goal, while Kerim Alajbegovic found the net to equalize for Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Where does Hungary stand in Group B2 after beating Georgia?
Following their 1-0 victory over Georgia, courtesy of Milos Kerkez’s goal, Hungary occupies third place in Group B2, three points behind group leaders Northern Ireland.
