Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 25: Bosnia and Herzegovina kept their FIFA World Cup knockout-stage hopes alive after registering a convincing 3-1 victory over Qatar in their final Group B match on Wednesday night in Seattle. The win took Bosnia's tally to four points, placing them third in the group and giving them a realistic chance of reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in their history.

The high-pressure encounter saw Bosnia and Herzegovina deliver a composed performance when it mattered most. They took the lead through Alibegović, whose goal provided the perfect start for the European side. Qatar's problems deepened shortly afterwards when an unfortunate own goal doubled Bosnia's advantage, leaving the Asian nation with a mountain to climb.

Attempted to fight back and managed to reduce the deficit when Hassan found the net, briefly reviving hopes of a comeback. However, Bosnia remained in control of the contest and continued to create opportunities. As Qatar pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Bosnia capitalised on the spaces left behind.

Late in the match, Ermin Mahmić delivered the decisive blow, scoring Bosnia and Herzegovina's third goal to put the result beyond doubt and end any hopes of a Qatar resurgence. The victory ensured Bosnia finished the group stage with four points and remained firmly in contention for a place in the last 16, depending on results elsewhere and goal difference calculations.

The other Group B fixture, Switzerland defeated co-hosts Canada 2-1 to finish at the top of the standings with seven points from three matches. Canada secured the runners-up position with four points and advanced to the knockout stage.

Bosnia and Herzegovina also finished with four points but were placed third due to an inferior goal difference compared to Canada. Despite the setback, Bosnia's chances of progressing remain alive as they await confirmation of the best third-placed teams. Qatar, meanwhile, ended their campaign with just one point from three matches and bowed out of the tournament at the group stage.