Bosnia v Republic of Ireland Key Battle: Miralem Pjanic v Glenn Whelan
Friday 13 November 2015 11:33, UK
Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republic of Ireland could edge closer to Euro 2016 with victory in the first leg of their play-off on Friday - and Martin O'Neill's men's chances will be greatly increased if they can stop crafty playmaker Miralem Pjanic from influencing the tie.
The 25-year-old has been in outstanding form for Roma this season, helping the Italian side to third in Serie A, just one point behind leaders Fiorentina and Inter Milan.
Pjanic has been involved in 10 goals in 10 appearances this season, a tally which, in Serie A, has only been bettered by forwards Gonzalo Higuain of Napoli and Sampdoria's Eder, who have been involved in 11 goals each.
Pjanic has registered five assists - the highest total in the league, alongside AC Milan's Giacomo Bonaventura and Chievo's Riccardo Meggiorini.
For his national side, Pjanic's influence is no less impressive. He has started Bosnia and Herzegovina's last 17 internationals, including all 10 Euro 2016 Qualifers and leads the way for his country in terms of chances created and passes made.
Stoke anchor Glenn Whelan will be one of the Republic's key men when it comes to trying to stop Pjanic in Zenica.
Whelan starred at the weekend against Chelsea and he was pivotal in stopping the trio of Willian, Hazard and Pedro from unlocking the Stoke defence. He made more clearances and blocks than any other Stoke player on the day as well as gaining possession 10 times.
Live Euro 2016 Qualifiers
The 31-year-old Dubliner has been a crucial performer for the Republic of Ireland in this campaign and his experience will be vital. He has started the Republic's last four play-off games - they were narrowly beaten by France in 2010 World Cup Qualifying before demolishing Estonia to reach Euro 2012.
The Republic have only conceded six goals in Whelan's seven starts in Euro 2016 Qualifying. He has won 92 per cent of tackles attempted and has the highest passing accuracy for his country in this campaign.
Pjanic and Whelan enter the first leg walking the tightrope of a suspension, as both are a booking away from missing the return leg at the Aviva Stadium on Monday evening.
That would be a major blow for both sides. They'll hope their two key men can make their mark on Friday and be there to finish the job four days later.
Watch Bosnia and Herzegovina v Republic of Ireland live on Sky Sports 1 HD on Friday from 7pm.
