Tarik Muharemovic was among the scorers as Bosnia and Herzegovina produced an outstanding first-half performance against Romania in Bucharest, taking a 3-1 lead into the interval.
Sergej Barbarez's team made a flying start and took control of the match early. Armin Gigovic opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Muharemovic doubled Bosnia and Herzegovina's advantage seven minutes later.
Muharemovic on target in Bucharest
The Bosnia defender made a major impact in the 19th minute, finding the net to make it 2-0. It was a huge moment for Muharemovic, who started in the centre of defence and added an attacking contribution to an already impressive opening period.
Romania responded in the 28th minute through Daniel Birligea, reducing the deficit and briefly bringing the hosts back into the contest.
Tabakovic restores the two-goal advantage
Bosnia and Herzegovina did not allow Romania's goal to disrupt their rhythm. Haris Tabakovic struck in the 40th minute to restore the two-goal cushion and send the Dragons into half-time with a 3-1 advantage.
The visitors combined intensity with efficiency during the opening 45 minutes and punished Romania whenever space appeared. With three goals before the break, Bosnia and Herzegovina put themselves in a strong position ahead of the second half.
First-half scorers
12' – Armin Gigovic: Romania 0-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina.
19' – Tarik Muharemovic: Romania 0-2 Bosnia and Herzegovina.
28' – Daniel Birligea: Romania 1-2 Bosnia and Herzegovina.
40' – Haris Tabakovic: Romania 1-3 Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Strong first half from Barbarez's team
Bosnia and Herzegovina entered the match after a goalless draw against Poland and immediately showed much more attacking efficiency in Bucharest. Muharemovic's goal was one of the key moments of an excellent first half for the visitors.
The second half will decide whether Bosnia and Herzegovina can turn the impressive opening 45 minutes into an important Nations League victory.
