World Cup
Barbarez hails PSV's Bajraktarevic after Bosnia's 3-1 win
Bosnia and Herzegovina coach Sergej Barbarez praised PSV winger Esmir Bajraktarevic after the national team’s 3‑1 victory over Qatar, which secured third place in the group and a spot in the knockout stage. The win, achieved on Tuesday evening, marked a turning point for the youthful squad.
Bajraktarevic, 21, has featured in the starting eleven for Bosnia in two World Cup matches, underscoring his growing importance for the side. His pace on the wing has been cited as a key factor in creating scoring opportunities.
"We came here as clear underdogs to achieve something big, and now we have done it," said Sergej Barbarez after the Bosnia‑Qatar match. He highlighted the team's collective effort in overcoming expectations.
Barbarez noted that the Bosnian squad is exceptionally young, but that does not deter his confidence. He said he aims to shield Kerim Alajbegovic from public pressure, positioning Kerim on one flank and Bajraktarevic on the other.
The coach believes the abundance of young talent will enable Bosnia to qualify for more major tournaments. He asserted that the team has only just begun its ascent on the international stage.
"These are the players who win games and form an essential part of the team. Their strong mentality fascinates me, and I know this is just the beginning for Bosnia and Herzegovina," Esmir Bajraktarevic said. He emphasized his belief in the squad’s future success.
Bosnia finished third in its group, securing advancement to the knockout phase of the tournament. The opponent for the next round has not yet been announced.
Fans can now tune into the latest Studio Oranje program hosted by Hedwiges Maduro for an in‑depth preview of the upcoming Netherlands‑Tunisia clash. The show promises analysis of both sides ahead of the next international fixture.