Edin Dzeko, 40, leads Bosnia’s bid to upset Italy in World Cup play-off final | OneFootball

At 40, Edin Dzeko remains Bosnia’s focal point as they aim to upset Italy in Tuesday’s European play-off final for the 2026 World Cup, built on strict discipline.

According to L'Équipe, of the 23 at Bosnia-Herzegovina’s first World Cup in 2014, only Sead Kolasinac and Dzeko remain. He was already a pillar before the Brazil tournament.

The record scorer has 147 caps and 73 goals. He equalised against Wales on Thursday in the 86th minute, a firm header, then Bosnia advanced after a 1-1 draw, winning 4-2 on penalties.

At Schalke 04 he has six goals and three assists in eight matches this year, helping them top the 2. Bundesliga after his winter arrival. Team-mate Adil Aouchiche portrays tireless work, gym hours, treatment, and meticulous care.

Former Bosnia coach Mecha Bazdarevic credits rare discipline and says he tried to recruit Dzeko at Sochaux before adulthood. He notes a career largely free of injury, only 41 matches missed in more than 20 years.

Bazdarevic recalls long recovery routines with assistant Stéphane Gilli, careful stretching and being first out to training. The ex Paris FC manager also sought him this winter before Ciro Immobile joined. Roger Milla is still the lone outfield World Cup forty-something, in 1994 at 42.

Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, and Luka Modric, 40, intend to emulate that this summer. Dzeko will face familiar Italians in the final, including Calafiori, Mancini, Dimarco, Barella, Bastoni and Kean.

Source: L'Équipe