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Bosnia Names First Full 2026 World Cup Squad, Blending Veterans With New Faces

The early release signals Barbarez’s focus on identity-driven, early preparation.

Overview

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina, which unveiled its 26-player list on Monday in Sarajevo, became the first of the 48 World Cup teams to publish a full squad.
  • Coach Sergej Barbarez said he picked players to reflect Bosnian identity, naming a balanced group with senior leaders and debutants.
  • Record scorer Edin Džeko, 40, made the roster as recent substitute outings eased fitness concerns following a shoulder injury in the playoff final.
  • Midfielder Ermin Mahmić earned selection after FIFA approved his switch in early May, joining 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegović, who impressed in the playoff shootouts.
  • Bosnia opens Group B against host Canada on June 12 in Toronto after clinching qualification with penalty shootout wins over Wales and Italy.