By Erestinah Jane, July 1, 2026
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) will look to capitalize on home advantage when they take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
The knockout encounter represents the beginning of the United States’ quest for a deep run in a home World Cup, with Mauricio Pochettino’s side entering the match as one of the tournament’s strongest performers after topping Group D.
Unlike their final group-stage match against Türkiye, where Pochettino rested several regular starters after qualification had already been secured, the American coach is expected to field his strongest available lineup for the win-or-go-home encounter.
Key players including Tyler Adams, Folarin Balogun and Chris Richards are expected to return to the starting eleven, bringing stability and experience to the squad. Christian Pulisic is also expected to lead the attack after recovering fully from a minor calf injury, while Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna are likely to play central creative roles.
The United States qualified for the knockout stage after an impressive group-stage campaign that saw them defeat Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 before suffering a narrow 3-2 defeat to Türkiye in a match where several first-choice players were rested. The loss had little consequence, as the Americans had already secured qualification and top spot in Group D.
Pochettino has repeatedly emphasized the importance of squad rotation during the tournament, saying the strategy was designed to keep his key players fresh for the knockout rounds. With elimination now at stake, the Argentine tactician is expected to abandon experimentation and rely on his experienced core.
The United States has impressed throughout the tournament with its high-intensity pressing game, quick transitions and disciplined defensive organization. Tyler Adams’ return is expected to strengthen midfield protection, while Chris Richards’ presence at the back adds leadership against Bosnia’s physical attacking approach.
Bosnia and Herzegovina arrive in the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s surprise packages. Despite finishing third in their group, they secured a knockout berth after producing disciplined performances and earning enough points to advance. Their campaign has been highlighted by resilient defending and efficient counterattacking football.
The Bosnians have shown remarkable determination throughout the competition and remain a dangerous opponent despite entering the match as underdogs. Their experienced players have guided the team through several difficult encounters, while their compact defensive structure has frustrated stronger opponents.
Bosnia are expected to adopt a cautious tactical approach, sitting deep in defence before looking to exploit counterattacks and set-piece opportunities. Their physical style and aerial strength could test the American defence throughout the contest.
For the United States, much of the attacking responsibility will rest on Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna. Balogun’s movement inside the penalty area, combined with Pulisic’s pace and creativity, gives the hosts multiple attacking options capable of unlocking Bosnia’s defence.
The midfield battle is also expected to be decisive. Tyler Adams’ ball-winning ability and leadership will be crucial in disrupting Bosnia’s attacks, while McKennie’s energy and ability to make late runs into the box could create additional scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the United States will depend on Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson and Sergiño Dest to contain Bosnia’s counterattacks while providing width in attack. Goalkeeper Matt Turner is also expected to play an important role with his experience and command of the penalty area.
Levi’s Stadium is expected to be filled to capacity, with thousands of American supporters creating a vibrant atmosphere for one of the country’s biggest matches of the tournament. Home advantage is widely viewed as one of the United States’ strongest assets as they seek a place in the last 16.
Bosnia will also enjoy significant backing from its diaspora community in Northern California, ensuring a lively atmosphere with strong support for both teams.
Football analysts consider the United States favourites to progress because of their superior squad depth, home advantage and attacking quality. However, Bosnia have already demonstrated throughout the tournament that they possess the discipline and resilience needed to trouble higher-ranked opponents.
The stakes could not be higher. The winner will book a place in the Round of 16, where they will meet the winner of the Belgium versus Senegal knockout fixture. A victory would move either nation one step closer to a place in the quarterfinals of the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup.
If the match remains level after the regulation 90 minutes, it will proceed to 30 minutes of extra time, and if necessary, a penalty shootout will determine which team advances to the next round.
