By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
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“A Bomb Took My Friends” — Džeko’s Emotional Tribute After Firing Bosnia to World Cup
Edin Džeko delivered a deeply emotional tribute after guiding Bosnia and Herzegovina to qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026, dedicating the historic achievement to childhood friends he lost during the Bosnian War.
“I want to dedicate this to my friends, we used to play football in the street every afternoon,” Džeko said, reflecting on his early years. “One day my mom got angry, and a bomb exploded in the street… and all my friends died.”
The Bosnia captain’s remarks came after his side secured a dramatic playoff victory to reach only their second World Cup, overcoming Italy on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw.
Džeko, who has long been the face of Bosnian football, played a crucial role throughout the qualification campaign despite being 40 years old, even scoring a vital late equaliser in the semifinal against Wales to keep their hopes alive.
His emotional reflection underscores the journey from a war-torn childhood in Sarajevo to leading his country onto football’s biggest stage. During the Bosnian War in the 1990s, Džeko grew up amid constant danger, with his family home destroyed and everyday life overshadowed by violence.
The striker’s story has become symbolic of resilience in Bosnian football, a generation shaped by conflict but united through sport.
Despite suffering an injury during the decisive playoff final, Džeko remained central to celebrations as Bosnia sealed qualification, highlighting both his enduring influence and leadership within the squad.
For Bosnia and Herzegovina, the qualification marks a historic return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014. For Džeko, it is a deeply personal milestone, one that carries memories far beyond football.
From the streets of Sarajevo to the global stage, his journey is not just about goals, but about survival, loss, and the enduring power of hope.
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