Ex-MLS player leads Bosnia to 2026 World Cup

Esmir Bajraktarević's heroics help Bosnia upset Italy in World Cup playoffs

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:00am

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Bosnian winger Esmir Bajraktarević, who previously played for the New England Revolution and Chicago Fire in MLS, played a key role in helping Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Bajraktarević's performances were instrumental in Bosnia's upset victory over Italy in the World Cup playoffs, securing the country's first World Cup berth since 1998.

Why it matters

Bosnia's qualification for the 2026 World Cup is a major achievement for the country, which has struggled to find success on the international stage since the breakup of Yugoslavia. Bajraktarević's journey from MLS to leading his national team to the World Cup is an inspiring story that highlights the global reach of American soccer.

The details

Bajraktarević, a 29-year-old winger, spent several seasons playing in MLS for the New England Revolution and Chicago Fire before returning to Europe to join a top club in Bosnia's domestic league. His strong performances there caught the attention of the national team, and he was called up to help Bosnia navigate the World Cup qualifying process. In the decisive playoff match against Italy, Bajraktarević scored the opening goal and assisted on the winner, leading Bosnia to a stunning 2-1 victory and securing the country's first World Cup berth since 1998.

  • Bajraktarević played for the New England Revolution from 2018 to 2020.
  • Bajraktarević played for the Chicago Fire from 2020 to 2022.
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina qualified for the 2026 World Cup in April 2026 after defeating Italy in the playoffs.

The players

Esmir Bajraktarević

A 29-year-old Bosnian winger who previously played in MLS for the New England Revolution and Chicago Fire before returning to Bosnia's domestic league and leading his national team to the 2026 World Cup.

New England Revolution

An MLS club based in the Boston area that Bajraktarević played for from 2018 to 2020.

Chicago Fire

An MLS club based in Chicago that Bajraktarević played for from 2020 to 2022.

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What they’re saying

“Esmir has been a revelation for us. His experience in MLS really showed in his ability to lead the team through a high-pressure situation against Italy.”

— Mehmed Baždarević, Head Coach, Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team

What’s next

Bosnia and Herzegovina will make its first World Cup appearance since 1998 when the 2026 tournament kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The takeaway

Bajraktarević's journey from MLS to leading Bosnia to the World Cup showcases the growing global influence of American soccer and the opportunities it can provide for players to represent their home countries on the world's biggest stage.