Široki Brijeg celebrate first title
Thursday, May 13, 2004
Article summary
NK Široki Brijeg were crowned champions of Bosnia-Herzegovina for the first time on Wednesday night.
Article body
NK Široki Brijeg were crowned champions of Bosnia-Herzegovina for the first time last night after ending the challenge of second-placed FK Sarajevo with a 1-0 victory.
Rezic winner
Stipe Rezic scored the only goal in the 21st minute at the Pecara stadium, meaning Široki Brijeg now lead Sarajevo by ten points with three matches to play. "It was not an easy victory but we have a strong team and an excellent spirit," said coach Ivo Istuk. "We have played well throughout the season and now we want to prove in [UEFA] Champions League qualifying that our title was no fluke."
Relegation candidates
Široki Brijeg will compete the in the first qualifying round of the Champions League, while Sarajevo need to fend off the challenge of NK Željeznicar and FK Leotar, last season's title-winners, to qualify for the UEFA Cup as runners-up. NK Brotnjo have already been relegated, with FK Glasinac the most likely candidates to join them.
Cup final
The Bosnia-Herzegovnian Cup final will be played on 26 May, FK Borac Banjaluka tackling FK Modrica. The winners will join the runners-up in UEFA Cup qualifying.
