Emotional welcome home: Bosnia's air traffic controllers greet national team in country's airspace

As the aircraft carrying the national team approached Sarajevo after flying from the United States, controllers from Bosnia and Herzegovina Air Navigation Services Agency (BHANSA) welcomed the players over the radio, thanking them for what they had achieved during the past month.

BHANSA said the symbolic gesture was intended to honour the players, coaching staff and everyone who represented Bosnia and Herzegovina at the World Cup.

"Today, on July 4 at 1:36 p.m., Sarajevo Approach Control welcomed our Dragons back from the United States following their historic World Cup success. Through this symbolic gesture, BHANSA's air traffic controllers sent a message of support, gratitude and pride to a team that brought joy to the entire country," the agency said.

The agency added that the national team had united Bosnia and Herzegovina throughout the tournament.

"Thank you for the joy, pride and unity you brought to our country. Dragons, welcome home!"

Bosnia and Herzegovina return home after the most successful World Cup campaign in the country's history.

Coached by Sergej Barbarez, the team advanced beyond the group stage of a World Cup for the first time before being eliminated by the United States in the Round of 32.

Although their dream run came to an end in the knockout stage, the way the team represented Bosnia and Herzegovina won the admiration of millions of supporters at home and abroad.

BHANSA's emotional greeting served as another reminder of how the national team united people across the country – from packed stadiums in the United States to the skies above Bosnia and Herzegovina.