United News of Bangladesh

Ermin Mahmic scored a crucial late goal as Bosnia-Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3-1 on Wednesday, significantly improving its chances of advancing to the knockout stage of the World Cup. The 21-year-old midfielder celebrated his 80th-minute strike by removing his jersey and running toward Bosnia-Herzegovina supporters at Lumen Field, earning a yellow card in the process. Bosnia coach Sergej Barbarez said the booking mattered little given that yellow cards are wiped out after the group stage. “I also heard that he shed a tear. I think it was quite emotional for him,” Barbarez said. The victory leaves Bosnia-Herzegovina, currently third in its group, in a strong position to reach the Round of 32. Under the expanded World Cup format, the eight best third-placed teams from the 12 groups qualify for the knockout phase. Bosnia-Herzegovina has appeared at only one previous World Cup, in 2014, when it failed to advance beyond the group stage. “We all wanted to make history,” Barbarez said. “But we still have to wait and see whether we progress to the next stage.” The team's fate now depends on results elsewhere in the tournament. Bosnia took the lead in the 29th minute through 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic, who fired a powerful shot past Qatar goalkeeper Mahmud Abunada from about 20 yards. The goal made him the eighth-youngest scorer in World Cup history. Goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj praised the teenager's performance, saying it was impressive to score on such a big stage at his age. Bosnia doubled its advantage five minutes later when a cross from Sead Kolašinac was redirected by Edin Džeko, with the ball eventually deflecting off Qatar defender Sultan Al-Brake for an own goal. Qatar reduced the deficit before halftime through Hassan Al Haydos, who scored in the 42nd minute. However, Mahmic's late goal sealed the win and confirmed Qatar's elimination from the tournament. For Bosnia-Herzegovina, a nation of around three million people, reaching the World Cup was already a notable achievement. The team qualified through the European playoffs by winning penalty shootouts against Wales and four-time champions Italy. If Bosnia advances, it could face the United States men's national soccer team in the Round of 32 at Levi's Stadium on July 1. Barbarez declined to discuss potential opponents but said his players would be ready for any challenge. “All of this is a bonus for us,” he said. “We will try to take on any team that comes our way. We are confident enough to face anyone.”