What happened?

Bosnia and Herzegovina found itself in the spotlight after two US reporters, Abigail Velez and Ana Kasparian, misnamed the country during the 2026 World Cup broadcast. Velez claimed she couldn't locate Bosnia on a map, while Kasparian, while explaining Balogun's red card, referred to Bosnia and two "small countries" that supposedly played against the USA.

How did Dzeko respond?

Edin Dzeko, captain of the Zmajevi, replied to Velez's comment: "That kind of outburst says more about her than about Bosnia and Herzegovina." His statement, recorded on the field after the June 27, 2026 match, quickly went viral. Dzeko emphasized that Bosnia is independent and such mistakes should not be tolerated in the international sports media.

Why does it matter for Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The incident highlights the ongoing need for recognition and respect for a smaller yet ambitious nation on the global stage. The Zmajevi, who qualified for their first World Cup appearance in 2026, now face added pressure to prove they are a serious opponent, not just a "small country" in some media eyes.

What’s next?

After the clips spread on Twitter and TikTok, US outlets issued apologies. NBC Sports posted an apology on July 2, 2026, and Velez admitted her error stemmed from ignorance. Kasparian also released a public apology on July 3, stressing her intent was informational, not offensive. For the Zmajevi, the focus remains on upcoming matches, including the round of 16 against Belgium on July 12, 2026, where they will have a chance to showcase their sporting worth on the world stage.