The Bosnian Football Association (NFSBIH) has taken the difficult decision to postpone all matches in its affiliated competitions following the tragic floods and landslides that have ravaged the country, claiming the lives of at least 16 people. This emergency measure was announced after an emergency meeting convened to assess the devastating impact of torrential rain and landslides that have destroyed homes, roads, and bridges, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with desperate efforts to locate those still missing.
The NFSBIH issued a statement on Friday, declaring a state of natural calamity in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to the floods and landslides. The statement emphasized the severity of the situation and the need to prioritize safety and recovery efforts.
The devastating floods have also inflicted significant damage on the infrastructure of numerous football clubs. Brnjaci, a third-tier side, has appealed for help from the local community after its home ground was submerged and club premises were flooded. In a poignant Facebook post on Friday, the club expressed gratitude for the support of the community and their efforts to repair the damage. They wrote, “Good people, coaches, parents, veterans and first team players managed to repair the damage as much as possible. Many thanks to everyone. We hope that we will all be fine and that this too will pass.”
As the country grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster, the NFSBIH’s decision to postpone football matches underscores the gravity of the situation and the importance of focusing on the wellbeing and safety of the Bosnian people.