“With just one kick, Bajraktarević, who is from Wisconsin but switched his allegiance to Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2024, stepped up to secure the shootout advantage for Bosnia, in-hand securing the country’s second World Cup finals since becoming an independent nation,” reported The Sporting News.
Esmir Bajraktarević scored his first international goal for Bosnia and Herzegovina on November 15, 2025, during a World Cup qualifier against Romania. The goal, a beautifully curved strike, was netted in the 79th minute and later voted UEFA Qualifiers goal of the month.
Since switching his allegiance from the USA youth teams to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bajraktarević has made 13 appearances for his new national team. His decision to represent Bosnia sparked conversations among American soccer fans, highlighting the complexities of national representation in sports.
Playing as a right winger for PSV Eindhoven in the Dutch Eredivisie, Bajraktarević joined the club in the summer of 2025 after a stint with the New England Revolution in Major League Soccer. During the 2025-26 season, he made 32 appearances for PSV, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
His contributions were pivotal in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s journey to the World Cup, including scoring the winning penalty kick in the playoff final against Italy on March 31, 2026. This victory secured Bosnia’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup, marking their first appearance in the tournament as an independent nation.
Bajraktarević’s kick getting past Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma sent the hosts into a frenzy, further solidifying his status as a key player for both club and country. “Esmir Bajraktarević clinched a World Cup berth for Bosnia and Herzegovina,” noted sources following the playoff final.
As he continues to develop, Bajraktarević has quickly become an essential figure in the national team setup. His first international goal not only helped secure Bosnia’s World Cup berth but also highlighted his potential as a rising star in international football.
Looking ahead, Bajraktarević will have the opportunity to showcase his skills at the 2026 World Cup, where Bosnia’s Group B includes Qatar, Switzerland, and Canada. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he performs on the world stage.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding further developments in his career, but his trajectory suggests a promising future for the young player.
