SOCCER: Bosnia end Qatar’s World Cup dream, all but seal knockout berth

SEATTLE — Bosnia and Herzegovina kept their FIFA World Cup hopes alive with a 3-1 victory over Qatar in Group B on Wednesday, boosting their chances of advancing to the knockout stage as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams while eliminating Qatar from contention.

On a memorable day for captain Edin Dzeko, who earned his 150th international cap, Bosnia finally broke through after dominating much of the first half.

Kerim Alajbegovic opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a brilliant individual effort. After receiving the ball near the edge of the penalty area, he weaved past several defenders before firing a powerful right-footed shot into the top corner.

Bosnia doubled its advantage shortly afterward. Sead Kolasinac delivered a deep cross to Dzeko at the back post, and the veteran striker volleyed the ball back across the goalmouth. The ball then deflected off a Qatari defender and into the net for an own goal, giving Bosnia a comfortable lead.

Qatar responded just before halftime when Hassan Al Haydos scored from close range to reduce the deficit and briefly raise hopes of a comeback.

However, Bosnia remained in control throughout the second half and continued to create the better chances. Their persistence paid off in the 80th minute when Ermin Mahmic found the back of the net to seal the victory.

The result leaves Bosnia and Herzegovina in a strong position to advance to the knockout rounds, while Qatar’s World Cup campaign comes to an end.

-Reporting by Ossian Shine; Editing by Ken Ferris/Reuters