Overview
- Bosnia qualified for the 2026 World Cup through dramatic European play-offs that culminated in a penalty shootout win over Italy to secure their second appearance as an independent nation.
- Barbarez built a squad that pairs experienced leaders such as Edin Džeko and Sead Kolašinac with an unusually young core, and he has publicly set the ambition of progressing beyond the group stage.
- Eighteen-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic has emerged as a leading young figure after key contributions in qualification, and goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj is established as the first-choice keeper under Barbarez.
- Midfielder Ivan Šunjić agreed to switch his international allegiance to Bosnia and provided defensive stability that helped the team secure qualification.
- Striker Haris Tabaković is recovering from a foot injury and, according to Barbarez, could be available between Bosnia’s second and third group matches as the team prepares to open its campaign in Toronto against co-host Canada.