Bosnia and Herzegovina has named a 25-man roster for the critical World Cup play-off semi-final against Wales. The squad includes a blend of veteran leaders and rapidly accelerating youth movement. Key figures such as Edin Dzeko, now 40 years old, and Kerim Alajbegovic, Esmir Bajraktarevic, and Nidal Celik are part of the team. A victory over Wales would see Bosnia face either Italy or Northern Ireland in a final winner-takes-all match for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Edin Dzeko remains the focal point of Bosnia's attack, despite his age. The 40-year-old striker has been in impressive form in the 2. Bundesliga, where he became the oldest goalscorer in the league's history earlier this year. Dzeko's form has kept him as a guaranteed starter, and he stands as the final active member of Bosnia's 'golden generation' that reached the 2014 World Cup.
The team's preferred style is physical and high-energy, with quick transitions being a key aspect. Midfielders Benjamin Tahirovic and Armin Gigovic operate in the engine room, while Stuttgart's Ermedin Demirovic provides a perfect foil for Dzeko. Demirovic often does the so-called dirty work to allow the captain to stay in the box.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina World Cup 2026 play-offs squad includes several notable players, including Nikola Vasilj, Martin Zlomislić, and Sead Kolašinac.
Bosnia's chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup rely heavily on Edin Dzeko's form, and the 40-year-old striker's ability to stay fit and score crucial goals. With the team's high-energy style and rapid youth movement, Bosnia could be a dark horse in the play-offs. A win against Wales would be a significant boost for the team, and Nidal Čelik's inclusion in the squad adds depth to Bosnia's midfield.
