Tîm Rhanbarthol y De Cymru’s Regions’ Cup journey came to an end as a 4-0 defeat to Zenica-Doboj saw the Bosnian hosts progress to next year’s final tournament.
A draw or victory would have been enough for Cymru to secure qualification, but Zenica-Doboj’s intense pressing proved difficult to handle as Cymru struggled to retain possession and win second balls.
The defeat also brought an end to Cymru’s memorable campaign which saw them score 13 goals across their three matches, including emphatic victories over Bitola and Cilicia.
Zenica-Doboj took the lead after just 10 minutes when Selimović slipped a perfectly weighted through ball between the Cymru centre-backs, releasing Šijerkić one-on-one with Harry Johnson. The forward made no mistake, calmly slotting the ball home to score the first goal Cymru had conceded in the tournament.
Cymru were forced into an early change soon after, with Bodenham replacing Dan Ingram in the back line.
The Bosnian side continued to apply pressure and doubled their advantage in the 20th minute. A ball from the left flank found Rapić, who cut it back to Kadušić who picked out the corner to make it 2-0.
Cymru went into the break two goals behind and needing a response after half-time, however, Zenica-Doboj struck again six minutes after the restart. Tadić played Šijerkić through on goal, with the forward rounding the goalkeeper before finishing into the empty net to double his personal tally and put the hosts firmly in control.
Šijerkić completed his hat-trick in the 65th minute, putting Zenica-Doboj four goals ahead and effectively ending Cymru’s hopes of a comeback.
Despite the deficit, Cymru managed to prevent the scoreline from getting any heavier, with Zenica-Doboj also striking the woodwork as they pushed for a fifth. The hosts ultimately saw out the remainder of the match to secure their place in next year’s final tournament, while Cymru finished second in the group.
Speaking after the game, Harrison admitted it had been a difficult afternoon but felt the better side had ultimately prevailed.
“Today was a tough one to take. Bosnia are a very good, organised and physical team, with some real quality up front. We had chances to pull goals back at some good times of the game, but didn’t convert them. If one had gone in you never know.
“Overall the best team won and we gave everything, so what more can I ask for?!”
Despite falling short of their target, Harrison was proud of the squad and the togetherness they had developed throughout their time in Bosnia.
“I’m so proud of the players and all the work they have put in over the last 10 days. We have created a real togetherness and bond off the field and just fell short on it.
“It has been a real pleasure even if we haven’t fulfilled our targets. A great experience for all involved.”
While they will not progress to the final tournament, the team can return home with plenty to be proud of from their first two victories.
