Bosnia-Herzegovina are on the verge of reaching the World Cup knockout stages for the first time after a 3-1 victory over 2022 hosts Qatar in their final Group B match on Wednesday. The win lifts Bosnia to four points, placing them in a strong position to advance as one of the best eight third-placed teams to the last 32. Qatar, meanwhile, exit at the group stage for the second consecutive World Cup.
Early Dominance and Breakthrough
Bosnia started aggressively, testing Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada twice in the first four minutes. Abunada denied Ermedin Demirovic's fierce drive and then tipped away Ivan Sunjic's shot. The pressure paid off in the 18th minute when 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic, Bosnia's youngest ever World Cup player, scored a screamer from outside the area after beating two defenders. Abunada had no chance, and the youngster celebrated by putting a finger to his lips.
Dzeko's Influence and Second Goal
Edin Dzeko, winning his 150th cap, played a key role in Bosnia's second goal five minutes later. His shot took a wicked deflection off al-Brake and then Abunada on its way into the net, doubling the lead. Dzeko came close again minutes later, his shot beating Abunada but rebounding off the post.
Qatar Fights Back
Bosnia's early energy dipped in the heat, and Qatar's most capped player, 35-year-old Hassan al-Haydos, pulled one back in the 42nd minute, rewarding coach Julen Lopetegui's faith. The Bosnian defence failed to learn from that, and in added time, Pedro Miguel's shot hit the far post, keeping Bosnia ahead.
Second Half and Sealing Victory
Al-Haydos's World Cup, and perhaps his international career, ended in tears as he left the pitch injured in the 55th minute. Chances were rare until Esmir stole in from the right wing and came close to scoring, but Abunada turned it away for a corner. In the 80th minute, Ermin Mahmic prodded the ball home for his second successive match, ripping his shirt off in celebration and receiving a yellow card. The 3-1 win puts Bosnia on the brink of history.
