Where is Bosnia and Herzegovina on a map? A simple guide for USMNT fans at the World Cup

ABC7 Los Angeles reporter Abigail Velez went viral for saying on air that she didn't know — or want to know — where Bosnia and Herzegovina is on a map.

If you want to know, you've come to the right place.

The United States' World Cup journey continues against the European nation on Wednesday night, and it's understandable if you can't quickly pinpoint Bosnia on a map. 

Here's a look at where you can find Bosnia and Herzegovina, plus more to know about the country.

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Where is Bosnia and Herzegovina on a map?

Bosnia and Herzegovina is located on the Balkan Peninsula in Europe, bordering Serbia to the west and Montenegro to the north and west. The majority of Bosnia is bordered by Croatia, which wraps around a significant chunk of the country.

Bosnia is across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, though the two countries don't border each other in any way because Croatia wraps around and cuts off Bosnia at the coast. Here's a look at where Bosnia is situated in Europe, outlined in red:

Google Maps

If United States soccer fans aren't too familiar with Bosnia, it might be because the country is making only its second-ever World Cup appearance and first appearance in the knockout stage. The USMNT did face Bosnia in an international friendly in December of 2021, winning 1-0.

MORE: Inside Bosnia and Herzegovina's World Cup roster

What is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city of about 275,000 isn't near any ocean or lake, but the Miljacka River runs right through the heart of downtown.

Bosnia has started to become known for producing basketball players, as current NBA players Jusuf Nurkic and Ivica Zubac are from the country.

Bosnia and Herzegovina population

Bosnia and Herzegovina released an official population estimate of 3.41 million in late 2024. That's almost exactly one percent of the current United States population.

Only four countries in the 2026 World Cup have a smaller population than Bosnia, and all but one -- Cape Verde -- were eliminated in the group stage.