Ibrahimovic moved by Bosnia’s first World Cup win

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was visibly emotional on Thursday after Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Qatar. The Balkan nation secured its first World Cup victory and advanced as one of the best third-placed teams into the knockout stage. The 3-1 win left a deep impression on Ibrahimovic, whose father’s roots lie in the country even though he represented Sweden. "This is what football is about: bringing people together," he told FOX Sports. "Especially for Bosnia, when you see how much this country has suffered. To see this joy makes me very emotional and gives me goosebumps. It is the roots of my father."

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Bosnia will face hosts the United States in the Round of 16, but Ibrahimovic believes the tournament is already a success for the Balkan side. "For the Bosnian fans this feels like winning the world title," he said. "It makes me happy and very proud. It was a special moment to see the fans singing. It makes me emotional; I can’t even express myself," added the former Ajax player, fighting back tears.

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Ibrahimovic’s comments came during a studio appearance on FOX Sports following Bosnia’s historic result.