Two Bosnia fans were arrested before Friday's FIFA World Cup opener between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto after allegedly assaulting police officers during a disturbance in the stands. The incident occurred approximately 50 minutes before kick-off at Toronto Stadium.
Match Details and Fan Arrests
Canada was held to a 1-1 draw against Bosnia, with Cyle Larin scoring a late equalizer to cancel out Jovo Lukic's opener for Bosnia. Despite Canada squandering several opportunities for their first-ever World Cup victory, the match atmosphere was largely peaceful. However, two supporters from a Bosnian supporters' group were ejected and arrested before the game.
Toronto police confirmed that two men were arrested at 2:10 pm Eastern Time, less than an hour before the match. Authorities responded to reports of a disturbance in the stands shortly after 2 pm, and upon arrival, two police officers were assaulted and sustained minor injuries. Both fans have been charged with assaulting a police officer.
Bosnian Fan Turnout and Costs
Despite Canada hosting their first home World Cup match, Bosnian fans turned out in large numbers, with up to 30,000 estimated to have traveled to Toronto. Around 10,000 Bosnian fans were inside the stadium, while thousands more gathered in the city. Many Bosnian fans now reside in Toronto, but others made the long journey from Bosnia, a significant financial commitment given the average monthly wage in Bosnia is around $800.
Mirror US Sports spoke with two Bosnian fans who traveled from Sweden, spending 10,000 euros ($11,500) each on flights to Toronto and Los Angeles to attend two matches. One fan, Sinan, expressed concern that high prices exclude "true fans" from attending.
World Cup Prospects
Bosnia has qualified for only one previous World Cup in 2014, where they won one match but were eliminated in the group stage. With 48 nations competing and eight of the 12 best third-placed finishers advancing, four points is expected to be enough to progress. Canada faces Qatar next and is favored to win, while Bosnia takes on Switzerland in Group B.
