Zlatan Ibrahimović was visibly emotional after Bosnia and Herzegovina secured a historic qualification for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With a 3-1 victory over Qatar, Bosnia booked their place in the Round of 16, achieving the greatest World Cup success in the nation’s history. After the match, Ibrahimović spoke proudly about the performance of the “Dragons” and the incredible atmosphere created by the Bosnian supporters.
Speaking in the FOX studio, the former Swedish striker reflected on football’s unique power to bring people together, especially a nation that has endured so much throughout its history.
“This is why football is played – to unite people. Especially for Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country that has suffered so much. I get emotional when I see all this happiness,” Ibrahimović said.
He admitted that the qualification carried special meaning for him because of his family ties to the country.
“I got goosebumps because that’s where my father’s roots are. When you see 70,000 fans singing together, it’s something truly extraordinary,” he added.
According to Ibrahimović, the Bosnian supporters have been one of the most inspiring stories of this World Cup.
“I’m happy and proud of them. The most special moment was hearing the fans singing. It’s all so emotional and difficult to put into words,” the former footballer concluded.
Following this historic qualification, Bosnia and Herzegovina will take the field in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 2 in San Francisco, where they will face hosts the United States.
