Bosnia-Herzegovina keeps 2026 World Cup hopes alive with 3-1 win over Qatar

Bosnia-Herzegovina kept their aspirations for the 2026 World Cup alive by securing a 3-1 victory over Qatar. The match, held at Lumen Field in Seattle, saw Bosnia-Herzegovina finish third in Group B with four points, positioning them for a potential advancement as a top third-placed team.

Qatar's defeat confirmed their exit from the tournament, mirroring their 2022 performance where they also failed to advance from the group stage. The Spanish-coached Qatari team ended their campaign with only one point.

Bosnia-Herzegovina took an early lead with a goal from Kerim Alajbegovic in the 29th minute, followed by an own goal from Qatar's Sultan Al Brake five minutes later. Despite a missed opportunity by captain Edin Dzeko hitting the post, Qatar managed to pull one back in the 42nd minute through Hassan Al Haydos, assisted by Edmilson Junior. The second half saw Qatar push for an equalizer, with Edmilson Junior and Akram Afif hitting the woodwork. However, Bosnia-Herzegovina sealed their victory in the 80th minute with a goal from Ermin Mahmic, making the final score 3-1.