The fans of Bosnia and Herzegovina will long remember Esmir Bajraktarević’s penalty kick in Zenica on March 31, 2026, which clinched a new place at the World Cup.
Bajraktarević first showed his talent in the United States, after which he transferred to PSV in January of last year.
Although he didn’t get a chance to play in the beginning, it didn’t discourage him, he continued to work and train with the same intensity.
During that period, he had great support from the experienced Ivan Perišić, with whom he collaborated and learned on a daily basis.
“I talk to Ivan every day. He is a player from whom I can learn a lot because he has had an incredible career. I am happy that I have the opportunity to be with him. He is older than me, but he has incredible energy and a great sense of humor,” said Bajraktarević earlier.
Perišić reacted publicly last summer, sending a message to coach Sergej Barbarez to pay attention to the young player.
“Selector, the kid is ready,” said Perišić.
At that moment, Bajraktarević was not on the national team’s list for the qualifying matches against Romania, Cyprus and San Marino, primarily because he did not have minutes in PSV.
However, just a few days after that message, he received an invitation to the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. He imposed himself very quickly and won his place in the team.
At the end of March this year, he became one of the key players when he took responsibility and scored the decisive penalty against Italy.
It was his 14th appearance for the national team, and so far he has scored two goals.
When it comes to club performance, he made 36 appearances for PSV, with five goals and two assists.
(Vijesti.ba)
