Bosnia and Herzegovina created World Cup history when they defeated Italy on penalties following a gripping 1-1 draw in their qualifying playoff.
For more updates on sport, follow the latest Nigeria sport
From the opening whistle, the hosts dominated possession and unleashed 30 shots, 17 of them inside Italy’s penalty area. Their full-backs pushed forward aggressively, and their relentless pressure forced repeated errors that kept the visitors pinned back for long stretches.
However, Italy relied on sharp counter-attacks and set pieces while managing limited possession. Their goalkeeper produced 10 crucial saves that kept the match alive through 120 minutes. Yet the Azzurri struggled to break through Bosnia’s defence, recording only 18 touches inside the box and highlighting their limited attacking threat.
After extra time, Bosnia showed remarkable composure from the penalty spot and advanced, ending Italy’s campaign despite the visitors’ stubborn defensive effort.
Read also on New Daily Prime:
Iran still expected to play at 2026 World Cup despite security concerns
Iran warns US over World Cup security
FIFA sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo over fans’ misconduct during World Cup playoff
Consequently, this match highlighted the power of control, territorial pressure and tactical discipline. Bosnia combined superior volume, relentless pressing and calm shootout finishing to secure the historic victory.
Meanwhile, Iraq sealed a triumphant return to the FIFA World Cup after they defeated Bolivia 2-1 in a tense intercontinental playoff in Mexico. The Lions of Mesopotamia became the 48th and final team to qualify, ending a painful 40-year absence since their last appearance in 1986.
Despite major disruptions from conflict in the Middle East, Iraq displayed incredible resilience. The team endured a gruelling three-day journey to Mexico yet started the match with energy and purpose. In the 9th minute, Ali Al-Hamadi rose highest to head home a perfectly delivered corner from Amir Al-Ammari and opened the scoring.
Nevertheless, Bolivia responded strongly before halftime when Moises Paniagua finished calmly to level the score at 1-1. The equaliser shifted momentum, and Bolivia pushed forward with greater danger as the first half closed.
In the second half, Iraq reacted powerfully and regained full control. Shortly after the break, captain Aymen Hussein finished clinically from close range to restore the lead. From that moment, Iraq defended with iron discipline and composure. Although Bolivia pressed hard for an equaliser, Iraq’s organised backline held firm through intense late pressure.
As a result, Iraq now advance to Group I, where they will face France, Senegal and Norway in a challenging group.
At the same time, Turkey ended their 24-year World Cup wait with a narrow 1-0 victory over Kosovo, thanks to a decisive strike from Kerem Aktürkoğlu. Similarly, Sweden secured their spot after a dramatic 3-2 win against Poland, with Viktor Gyökeres scoring a late winner to complete a thrilling night of qualification drama.
