The recent victory of the Croatian handball team, which included several players of Bosnian Croatian descent, has highlighted the perceived animosity of the Croatian left towards Croats from Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). The team's success was celebrated by many, yet the appearance of the Herzeg-Bosna flag during celebrations elicited negative responses from sections of the left, who have shown tolerance towards illegal migrants but expressed disdain for ethnic Croats from BiH. This contradiction has sparked discussions about identity and belonging within Croatia, revealing underlying tensions regarding national identity and the historical context of Croats in BiH.

From a historical perspective, Croats in BiH are a recognized constitutional ethnic group, holding rights to Croatian citizenship, which allows them to represent Croatia in international sports. The article points out that many players on the national team have ties to BiH, bringing their heritage into the spotlight. The contrasting attitudes towards migrants and Bosnian Croats indicate a deeper societal conflict, raising questions about the inclusiveness of the national identity and the broader political implications of these attitudes.

Overall, the narrative suggests that these attitudes reflect a significant divide within Croatian society regarding national identity, belonging, and how different groups are perceived. The success of the team has inadvertently unmasked these societal issues, framing the discussion around ethnic identity, solidarity, and the political landscape that influences perceptions of who is truly considered Croatian.