Bosnia and Herzegovina finished top of UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualifying Group 2 after three straight wins in Plovdiv, Toni Karacic's team proving to be strong defensively and equally effective in attack.
Karacic's solid outfit started as they meant to go on, first-half goals from Safet Šivšic and Ivan Kukavica earning a 2-0 opening victory against Russia. The Republic of Ireland represented a stern second test, but Bosnia and Herzegovina again passed it with flying colours, earning another 2-0 success thanks to goals by impressive striker Marko Maletic and a late Sanjin Prcic effort.
In their final match, the Bosnians showed both tactical discipline and physical athleticism to overcome Bulgaria 2-1, Amer Rahmanovic's winner 12 minutes from time preserving his side's perfect record.
Ireland justified their growing reputation as a force in youth football by finishing runners-up in the section. Despite their defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina, Paul Doolin's charges began with an impressive 4-1 triumph against Bulgaria, Anthony Forde and Connor Smith among the goals. Semi-finalists in Romania last summer, Ireland secured their place in the next stage with a 3-1 success against Russia, Forde again on the scoresheet.
Hosts Bulgaria can take some comfort from midfielder Todor Nedelev's impressive showings and victory against Russia, secured by Martin Kozhuharov's solitary goal, but could only finish third in the standings.
