Nikola Katic features for full 90 minutes in 1-1 draw against Canada

Nikola Katic was named in the starting line-up and made his first appearance at a World Cup in front of the 43,000 fans at Toronto Stadium. The centre-back featured for the full 90 minutes and put in a strong performance as Bosnia came away with a draw.

The 29-year-old looked rock-solid at the back and put in several strong challenges as well. With Bosnia 1-0 up, he made a crucial goalline clearance to deny Tani Oluwaseyi in the 66th minute, after the attacker had already beaten goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj.

Edin Džeko was also included in the squad, but did not make an appearance from the bench.

Jovo Lukic had put Bosnia 1-0 up after 21 minutes, heading in from close range. Former Royal Blue Sead Kolasinac was also involved, flicking on a corner from Ivan Basic.

Substitute Cyle Larin then brought Canada level, finding the back of the net in the 79th minute. The striker received the ball at the top of the box before finishing on the turn into the bottom right corner.

Next match versus Switzerland

Bosnia’s second group stage match will see them take on Switzerland in Los Angeles on Thursday (18/6). Their final opponent of the group stage will be Qatar, with the match taking place in Seattle on Wednesday (24/6).

In addition to the top two sides in each group, the eight best third-placed sides will also advance to the round of 32 following the conclusion of the group stage.