Bosnia and Herzegovina manager Sergej Barbarez has named a balanced squad blending experience and youth for the upcoming World Cup, with veteran striker Edin Dzeko and uncapped midfielder Ermin Mahmic among the key inclusions.
Edin Dzeko, Bosnia’s most capped player and all-time leading scorer, will spearhead the attack. The 40-year-old is one of only two players remaining from the nation’s sole World Cup appearance in 2014, alongside defender Sead Kolasinac.
Bosnia secured their place at the tournament after a dramatic playoff run, defeating Wales and Italy on penalties. Dzeko picked up a shoulder injury during extra time against Italy and missed the subsequent shootout. Although he was sidelined for four club matches with Schalke 04, he has since returned from the bench in recent games, easing concerns over his fitness ahead of the World Cup.
Barbarez also moved quickly to integrate new talent, handing a first senior call-up to 21-year-old midfielder Ermin Mahmic after FIFA approved his change of international allegiance earlier this month. Previously involved with Austria at youth level and Bosnia’s Under-19 side, Mahmic is seen as a long-term addition to the national setup.
The coach praised Mahmic’s technical profile, noting his ability to operate as a No. 8 or No. 10 and highlighting his creative qualities as something the team has lacked in depth.
There is also excitement around 18-year-old winger Kerim Alajbegovic, who impressed during the playoffs. He contributed an assist in the win over Wales and scored a decisive penalty in the shootout, as well as converting again in the victory over Italy.
Bosnia will play warm-up matches against North Macedonia in Sarajevo on May 29 and Panama in St. Louis before beginning their World Cup campaign against Canada on June 12 in Toronto. They have been drawn in Group B alongside Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland.
Bosnia squad:
Goalkeepers: Nikola Vasilj, Martin Zlomislic, Osman Hadzikic
Defenders: Sead Kolasinac, Amar Dedic, Nihad Mujakic, Nikola Katic, Tarik Muharemovic, Stjepan Radeljic, Dennis Hadzikadunic, Nidal Celik
Midfielders: Amir Hadziahmetovic, Ivan Sunjic, Ivan Basic, Dzenis Burnic, Ermin Mahmic, Benjamin Tahirovic, Amar Memic, Armin Gigovic, Kerim Alajbegovic, Esmir Bajraktarevic
Forwards: Ermedin Demirovic, Jovo Lukic, Samed Bazdar, Haris Tabakovic, Edin Dzeko
