Friday 22 August 2014 14:55, UK
Bosnia and Herzegovina coach Safet Susic felt referee Peter O’Leary and his assistants played a key role in the 1-0 defeat by Nigeria which ended their World Cup campaign.
Peter Odemwingie scored the only goal of the game in the 29th minute when he converted from close range after Emmanuel Emenike out-muscled Emir Spahic on the right flank.
But it was the offside flag which was incorrectly raised against Edin Dzeko eight minutes earlier in the first half when he beat Vincent Enyeama only to have his effort chalked off which irked Susic.
Bosnia’s first-ever World Cup adventure is over even before their final Group F clash against Iran, with Susic pointing the finger at the trio of New Zealand officials.
"I was told there was no offside but it's not the first or last time a referee has made a bad decision at this World Cup and it won't be the last," said the 59-year-old.
"We lost to a good side, Nigeria played better than against Iran."
Susic was also left to rue his players' failure to convert numerous scoring chances, but made sure to congratulate Nigeria for their accomplishment.
He said: "The match unfolded exactly the way I imagined. It was an open game, two teams wishing to win, lots of chances at either end.
"We had a lot of chances and didn't convert any. They had one and scored that goal. I can only congratulate them.
"We knew they would be tough but they surprised us with their speed, their movement. They played attacking football, they really wanted to win.
"Now they are in second place in the group with a great chance to progress."
Dzeko could have snatched a point in the closing seconds, only to see his shot on the turn saved by Enyeama before striking the post.
