US2 min(s) read
Published 11:28 28 Jun 2026 GMT
An ABC7 Los Angeles reporter has apologized after facing backlash for comments she made about Bosnia and Herzegovina during a live World Cup segment.
Abigail Velez came under fire after a clip of her discussing the United States men's national team's upcoming knockout-stage clash against Bosnia went viral on social media.
During the broadcast, Velez attempted to hype up Team USA's Round of 32 match, but her remarks quickly sparked criticism from viewers.
"I could not point out where it is on a map," she said of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
"I don't know the first thing about Bosnia, and I don't wanna know."
She then added: "Get prepared, Bosnia, because you don't want it. You don't want it like that. But you're gonna get it."
The comments quickly spread online, with many viewers accusing the reporter of being disrespectful toward the European nation and its football team.
As criticism escalated, Velez addressed the controversy with a public statement shared across her social media accounts.
"In a poor effort to have a little fun with World Cup competition, I took it too far and made a thoughtless comment on air that was insensitive and inappropriate," she wrote.
"I apologize to the people of Bosnia and the Bosnian Football team."
The reporter went on to acknowledge that her comments failed to reflect the spirit of the tournament.
"The World Cup is supposed to be about uniting communities around the world, and my comment didn't reflect that spirit," she added.
"Wishing all the teams the very best as they continue their World Cup journey."
The controversy comes as Bosnia and Herzegovina continue their impressive run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The tournament marks just the nation's second World Cup appearance and its first-ever trip to the knockout stages.
Bosnia secured their place in the Round of 32 after pulling off a surprise 3-1 victory over Qatar during the group stage.
They are now set to face the United States on Wednesday in Santa Clara, California, with a place in the last 16 up for grabs.
While Velez's comments may have been intended as lighthearted trash talk ahead of the match, the reaction online has highlighted how quickly World Cup rivalries can spill beyond the pitch.
And with Bosnia now preparing for one of the biggest games in the country's football history, many fans will be hoping the action on the field does the talking.
