Zlatan Ibrahimović moved as Bosnia and Herzegovina reaches World Cup group stage for first time

Jakarta – Former Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimović was visibly moved by Bosnia and Herzegovina's historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup group stage. The Dragons secured their place by finishing third in Group B with four points, achieving a new milestone for the nation, currently ranked 62nd in the FIFA world rankings.

Ibrahimović, who has Bosnian heritage through his father, described the moment as incredibly emotional. "That's what football means. Especially for Bosnia, seeing how much suffering this country has experienced. Witnessing this kind of happiness makes me very emotional and gives me goosebumps," he said, with tears in his eyes. "That's where my father's origins are, and seeing 70,000 people singing together is truly extraordinary. For me, the Bosnian supporters have already won the World Cup. I am very happy and proud to see them advance from the group stage."

The article notes Bosnia's history, including the ethnic cleansing and the Bosnian War in the 1990s, suggesting this context amplifies the significance of the football achievement. The report also touches on the solidarity shown by Bosnian supporters towards the Palestinian people, referencing the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Although Ibrahimović represented Sweden internationally, having been born and raised there, his Bosnian roots hold deep personal meaning. He was eligible to play for Sweden, Bosnia and Herzegovina, or Croatia. The former AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, and Manchester United forward expressed pride in his heritage and the team's success.

Bosnia and Herzegovina will face host nation USA in the round of 16 on July 1st in Santa Clara, California. The US team also secured their knockout stage berth despite a group stage loss.

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That's what football means. Especially for Bosnia, seeing how much suffering this country has experienced. Witnessing this kind of happiness makes me very emotional and gives me goosebumps. That's where my father's origins are, and seeing 70,000 people singing together is truly extraordinary. For me, the Bosnian supporters have already won the World Cup. I am very happy and proud to see them advance from the group stage.