World Cup broadcaster forced to apologise after 'inappropriate' comment

A journalist from ABC Los Angeles has been forced to issue a public apology following remarks widely condemned as inappropriate regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Abigail Velez recorded a news segment in which she proudly declared her lack of knowledge about the Balkan country after it was drawn against the United States in the World Cup's round of 32.

The reporter boasted on air that she could not locate the nation on a map and had no desire to learn anything about it.

Her comments sparked widespread criticism across social media platforms, with the footage circulating rapidly online.

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During her original broadcast, she said: "Okay, the next round Team USA will play Bosnia next Wednesday, and one thing about Bosnia is I could not point out where it is on a map.

"I don't know the first thing about Bosnia [and Herzegovina], and I don't want to know. That's because Team USA. We're back. We're better than ever."

The reporter then directed provocative remarks towards the Bosnian team ahead of their San Francisco encounter.

She continued: "That's next Wednesday. Get prepared, Bosnia, because you don't want it. You don't want it like that, but you're gonna get it. That's next Wednesday."

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In her apology, posted on Saturday, the broadcaster acknowledged her error.

Her message read: "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.

"I apologise to the people of Bosnia and the Bosnian Football team.

"The World Cup is supposed to be about uniting communities around the world, and my comment didn't reflect that spirit."

She continued: "Wishing all the teams the very best as they continue their World Cup journey."

Bosnia and Herzegovina, home to fewer than 3.5 million people, ranks among the smaller nations to progress to the knockout rounds.

They progressed through the best third-place route in Group B after beating Qatar in their final group game.

Bosnia drew their opening match 1-1 against co-hosts Canada, with Jovo Lukic's goal helping the Balkan side get their first point on the board.

They suffered a heavy defeat to Switzerland 4-1 in their second game, who would eventually go on to win the group.

Their performance of the tournament so far saw Bosnia smash Qatar, with goals from Kerim Alajbegovic and Ermin Mahmic.

An own goal from Ibrahiam Abunada countered out Qatar's strike from Hasan Al Haydos, as Bosnia did enough to reach the last 32.

Should they progress against the US, Bosnia will face either Belgium or Senegal in the next round.

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