"The match against Noah was crucial for us because both we and they had to win to advance. Although we were the favorites, we knew it wouldn't be easy
“The match against Noah was crucial for us because both we and they had to win to advance. Although we were the favorites, we knew it wouldn’t be easy. We started poorly but managed to reduce the deficit before the end of the first half and completely turned the score around in the second half. The team played fantastically, and I was also satisfied with my performance. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, and everything started badly for us. Still, we managed to cut the deficit before the end of the first half and completely reverse the score in the second half. I’m happy with my performance. Although I missed a penalty, after the rebound, I reacted quickly and scored the goal that brought us back into the game. In the end, from nearly being a tragic figure, I became one of the better individuals on the pitch,” said Đakovac.
TSC’s advancement to the Round of 16 is a major success for the club, and Đakovac believes this is just the beginning for a team that has surprised many with its performances and achievements.
“The success is enormous, and the euphoria continues. It’s the result of constant work by everyone at the club, and surely more results will follow. Our goal is to no longer be a surprise in Europe but to become a competitive club at that level,” added Đakovac, speaking about the team’s future ambitions in European competitions.
Reflecting on his football career, Đakovac looked back on his journey from smaller clubs to major accomplishments. Before joining TSC, he played for Zlatibor and Tutin, considering those experiences crucial for his career development.
“My path to this success has been very long—I believe it wasn’t tied to one key moment. It’s the result of a series of decisions, obstacles, and choices. Before TSC, I played for Zlatibor and Tutin, and I believe those clubs significantly contributed to my professional growth. As a younger player, I might have ‘warmed the bench’ at bigger clubs, but I believed continuity in playing was most important. That’s what builds a football career and enables progress toward better teams and leagues,” said Đakovac.
Đakovac also shared his experiences with the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, which was a special honor for him. He made his debut for the national team in a draw against the Netherlands on November 19 in Zenica.
“Being called up to the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team is a huge honor and pride for me. I’m grateful for the trust, even though I haven’t had much playing time yet. I hope that will come in the future. In the World Cup qualifiers, I hope to help my teammates achieve the best possible result. I’m confident we’ll give our all as a team to make the best possible outcome,” emphasized Ifet.
Speaking about his roots, Ifet takes pride in his origins and often highlights the influence of his hometown on his career.
“I’m very proud of my roots. I come from a small place with little perspective for success, but I’ve achieved some goals. Of course, Sjenica, as well as Sandžak, are a great inspiration for me. I’m often the only or one of the few Bosniaks in matches, and I certainly strive to represent my hometown in the best possible light,” Đakovac pointed out.
Finally, Ifet sent a message to young footballers who want to follow his path, emphasizing the importance of hard work and mental strength in professional sports.
“Football is a double-edged sword. It brings beautiful moments but also many sacrifices in other aspects of life. It’s important to be mentally strong and handle criticism and negative comments. Focus on what you love, work hard, and never give up,” Đakovac advised, highlighting the values young footballers should embrace.
TSC will face Poland’s champions, Jagiellonia, in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Conference League. The matches are scheduled for February 13 and 20 next year.
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