Who is Jovo Lukic? Bosnia and Herzegovina striker who opened FIFA World Cup 2026 scoring against Canada
Bosnia and Herzegovina opened their World Cup campaign against Canada tonight.
Bosnia and Herzegovina needed just 21 minutes to take the lead in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Canada at BMO Field in Toronto. After a strong start, the Dragons took the lead when Jovo Lukic headed a well-worked corner routine past Maxime Crepeau to put the visitors ahead.
After an attacking start to the match, with both teams having plenty of chances to go ahead, it was the visiting side who capitalised on a set-piece situation. Richie Laryea conceded a corner, which Amar Memic floated in towards the near post. Former Arsenal man Sead Kolasinac flicked it towards Lukic, who headed past the goalkeeper into the top corner.
It was a brilliant start for the Balkan nation, who were making only their second appearance in the tournament as an independent nation. It was also a moment to cherish for Lukic, the inexperienced striker who was surprisingly chosen ahead of talismanic captain Edin Dzeko in the starting lineup.
Jovo Lukic Profile
- Age: 27
- Position: Striker
- Club: Universitatea Cluj (Romania)
Lukic, who is of Serbian descent, failed to establish himself with Bosnian clubs. He moved to the Romanian side Universitatea Craiova in 2024 before transferring to Universitatea Cluj the next year. It was at Cluj that Lukic exploded, enjoying a breakthrough season in 2025-26. In 39 matches across all competitions, he scored 20 goals and registered three assists.
Despite making his international debut in 2021, he did not earn another cap for several years. However, his good form saw him recalled to the Bosnia team by Sergej Barbarez. Still, Lukic played no part in his teamâs World Cup qualifying campaign, with Dzeko leading the line.
However, Lukic repaid the faith Barbarez had placed in him after being handed his fourth cap against Canada. His goal put Bosnia on track to secure what would be only their second win in a World Cup match.
Who scored Bosniaâs first goal in FIFA World Cup 2026?
Bosnian striker Jovo Lukic headed in the opener in the 21st minute from a setâpiece routine against Canada on June 12, 2026.
Which club does Jovo Lukic play for?
He plays for Universitatea Cluj in Romania, where he scored 20 goals in the 2025â26 season.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When heâs not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.