In one of the most stunning results in European football history, Bosnia and Herzegovina have booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for the third time in a row.
Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Italy 1-1 (4-1 on penalties) in the UEFA play-off final in Zenica in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Moise Kean gave Italy an early lead, but Alessandro Bastoni was sent off before half-time, leaving Italy with 10 men on the field. Haris Tabaković equalised late on to force extra time, after which Bosnia held their nerve in the shoot-out.
The Bosnians secured qualification with this hard-fought victory, confirming their second appearance at the World Cup finals after their debut in Brazil in 2014. Italy, meanwhile, were eliminated in the same phase, extending a dismal run that has now seen them miss the finals in 2018, 2022 and 2026.
For a country of just 3.2 million people still recovering from the devastating effects of the 1990s Balkan war, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s achievement is nothing short of extraordinary. Football infrastructure remains modest, domestic attendances are modest by European standards, and the national side has long been forced to rely on a talented diaspora and a handful of players plying their trade in stronger leagues abroad. Yet under the guidance of their coaching staff, a young, determined squad has overcome far wealthier and more established nations, including the mighty Italy, to reach football’s greatest stage once again.
“This is more than a football result – it is a moment of national pride for a country that has known too much hardship,” said Bosnia head coach Sergej Barbarez after the final whistle. “Our players have shown the world what heart, discipline and belief can achieve when resources are limited. The whole nation will be celebrating tonight.”
Celebrations erupted across Bosnia and Herzegovina the moment the decisive penalty was converted. In Sarajevo, thousands poured into the streets, waving flags, singing national songs and setting off fireworks that lit up the night sky. Cars honked incessantly through the capital’s main avenues, while fans gathered in squares and outside the National Stadium to chant the names of the heroes who had defeated Italy. Similar scenes unfolded in Banja Luka, Mostar and Tuzla, where public spaces transformed into open-air parties.
WHAT A NIGHT!🇧🇦 pic.twitter.com/mxGCcO5AWG
— Bosnian Football (@BosniaNTBall) April 1, 2026
The path to qualification was tough. Drawn in a competitive group, Bosnia finished second behind Portugal before navigating a treacherous play-off route that culminated in this dramatic triumph over the four-time world champions. Their success stands in stark contrast to Italy’s continued struggles. The Azzurri, who last lifted the World Cup in 2006, were defeated in the group stages in 2010 and 2014, and then failed to qualify in 2018, 2022 and now 2026.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in North America from 11 June to 19 July, marking the first time the tournament is co-hosted by three countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It will also be the first edition expanded to 48 teams, with matches staged in 16 cities — 11 in the USA, three in Mexico, and two in Canada. The final is scheduled for the MetLife Stadium in New York.
Iran’s participation remains a question
Iran qualified for the tournament through the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) pathway, but their participation remains highly uncertain amid escalating geopolitical tensions and conflict involving the United States and Israel. Iranian officials, including Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali and Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj, have expressed serious doubts about sending the team to the USA, citing safety concerns and a reluctance to play in the United States. All three of Iran’s group-stage matches (against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand) are currently scheduled in US venues, two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.
FIFA has rejected requests to shift Iran’s matches to Mexico or alter the schedule. In statements, the governing body emphasised it remains in regular contact with all participating associations, including Iran, and confirmed: “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.” FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reiterated that there is “no Plan B, C or D” and that Iran’s matches will take place as drawn, while stressing that the organisation expects all qualified teams to participate.
Donald Trump has said that Iran should not participate in the upcoming World Cup in North America, just days after telling FIFAs chief they would be welcome despite the Middle East war. On 12 March 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social, “The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.”
