*This content was translated by AI.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, making its World Cup appearance for the first time in 12 years, has announced its final roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
The Football Association of Bosnia and Herzegovina announced on the 11th (Korea time) that it has finalized its final roster for the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup, introducing 26 players.
With this, Bosnia and Herzegovina became the first of the 48th teams qualified for the World Cup finals to announce its final roster.
Earlier, Bosnia and Herzegovina competed in European Group H of the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers against Austria, Romania, Cyprus, and San Marino. Finishing second in Group H with five wins, two draws, and one loss (17 points), Bosnia advanced to the playoffs, defeating Wales in the playoff semifinals and Italy in the final round to secure a thrilling "World Cup ticket."
A look at the roster reveals a blend of veterans and young talent. The most striking name is undoubtedly the "40-year-old veteran" Edin Dzeko (Schalke 04). Dzeko, who established himself as a world-class striker during his prime, played for Wolfsburg (Germany), Manchester City (England), AS Roma (Italy), and Fenerbahce (Turkey).
Despite his advanced age, Dzeko demonstrated his enduring form last year by donning the Fiorentina (Italy) jersey and returning to top-tier football. In January, he moved to Schalke and has continued his impressive performances. This season, he made 10 appearances in the German 2. Bundesliga, scoring six goals and providing three assists. Thanks to his contributions, Schalke also secured promotion and will return to the 1st. Bundesliga next season.
Dzeko has also been a key player for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team for a long time. He has made 148 appearances in international matches, scoring 74 goals, and has experience from the 2014 Brazil World Cup. Dzeko also performed brilliantly in the European qualifiers for this CONCACAF World Cup. In the playoff semifinal against Wales, with Bosnia trailing 0-1 late in the second half, he scored a dramatic equalizer in the 41st minute of the second half. Thanks to his goal, Bosnia defeated Wales in a tense penalty shootout.
Alongside him, 19-year-old prospect Kerim Alajbegovic (Red Bull Salzburg) and midfielder Ermin Macevic (21, Slovan Liberec) have also been included in the final roster and are expected to play alongside Dzeko.
British Reuters reported, "Bosnia and Herzegovina has announced its final roster for the CONCACAF World Cup, mixing experienced players with young talent." The British BBC highlighted the announcement, noting, "Countries qualified for the World Cup finals have begun announcing their 26-player final rosters."
British Squawka identified three players to watch from Bosnia: Dzeko, Haris Tabakovic (32, Borussia Mönchengladbach), and Esmer Bajraktarevic (21, PSV Eindhoven). Regarding Dzeko, Squawka stated, "After leaving Serie A, he signed with Schalke in January this year. The 40-year-old veteran striker has had a successful time at Schalke." It further explained, "Much of Bosnia's hope rests on Dzeko's experience. However, as Dzeko himself is entering his twilight years, he will need help from his teammates. Bosnia aims to reach the tournament stage for the first time in its history at this World Cup."
Meanwhile, the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, led by coach Sergej Barbarez, has been drawn into Group B of the CONCACAF World Cup alongside host nation Canada, Switzerland, and Qatar. Given that the four teams are of similar strength, Bosnia could realistically aim for first place in the group.
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*This content was translated by AI.
