Bosnia and Herzegovina have become the first nation to officially announce their 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite being one of the final teams to secure qualification through a gruelling play-off route, the Balkan nation has taken a proactive approach under head coach Sergej Barbarez. The selection represents a strategic blend of veteran leadership, established European talent, and emerging prospects.
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Squad Composition and Key Figures
The squad is headlined by the inclusion of 40-year-old striker Edin Džeko. As the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, Džeko remains the focal point of the team. Joining him as the only other survivor from Bosnia’s sole previous World Cup appearance in 2014 is Atalanta defender Sead Kolašinac.
At the other end of the age spectrum is 18-year-old winger Kerim Alajbegović. The Red Bull Salzburg talent is the youngest member of the contingent. Alajbegović played a pivotal role in the qualification process, providing an assist for Džeko against Wales, scoring the winning penalty in that shootout, and converting another penalty in the decisive match against Italy.
Bosnia and Herzegovina 2026 World Cup Squad
| Position | Players |
| Goalkeepers | Nikola Vasilj, Martin Zlomislić, Osman Hadžikić |
| Defenders | Sead Kolašinac, Amar Dedić, Nihad Mujakić, Nikola Katić, Tarik Muharemović, Stjepan Radeljić, Dennis Hadžikadunić, Nidal Čelik |
| Midfielders | Amir Hadžiahmetović, Ivan Šunjić, Ivan Bašić, Denis Burnić, Ermin Mahmić, Benjamin Tahirović, Amar Memić, Armin Gigović, Kerim Alajbegović, Esmir Bajraktarević |
| Forwards | Edin Džeko, Ermedin Demirović, Jovo Lukić, Samed Baždar, Haris Tabaković |
Tactical Additions and Fitness Concerns
A significant addition to the midfield is 21-year-old Ermin Mahmić. Born in Austria, Mahmić previously represented Austria at U17 and U21 levels before featuring for the Bosnian U19 side. FIFA approved his eligibility switch earlier this month, allowing Barbarez to include him immediately. Barbarez noted that Mahmić’s ability to operate in both the “number 8” and “number 10” roles provides a unique profile currently lacking in the squad.
Regarding fitness, there were concerns over Edin Džeko after he sustained an injury during extra time in the play-off final against Italy. This injury sidelined him for four matches with his club, Schalke. However, his return to the pitch for the final two domestic fixtures of the season has alleviated fears regarding his availability for the tournament.
Road to the Finals and Group Stage
Bosnia and Herzegovina secured their place in the tournament following high-stakes penalty shootout victories over Wales and Italy. They have been drawn into Group B, where they will face Argentina, Qatar, and Switzerland.
The team’s preparations involve two international friendlies. They will first host North Macedonia in Sarajevo on 29 May, followed by a trip to St. Louis to face Panama. Their World Cup campaign officially commences on 12 June in Toronto against Canada. By naming their squad early, Barbarez intends to foster cohesion as the team seeks to improve upon their group-stage exit in 2014.