The United States opened its 2026 World Cup knockout run against Bosnia‑Herzegovina on Wednesday in Santa Clara, kicking off the round of 32. Mauricio Pochettino deployed a refreshed XI, reinstating Christian Pulisic after his group‑stage absence. Early pressure paid off when Balogun found the net in the 14th minute, putting the hosts ahead 1‑0.

Bosnia‑Herzegovina answered swiftly, leveraging Edin Džeko’s hold‑up play to draw the defense and earn a dangerous corner that rattled the box. Matt Turner produced two reflex saves, denying a close‑range effort and a late header. The visitors kept the tempo high, forcing the Americans to defend deeper as the half‑hour mark approached.

In the second half, the United States consolidated the lead, with midfielders Weston McKennie and Tyler Washington pressing high and cutting off supply lines. Bosnia pressed for an equaliser, but a disciplined backline held firm, and Pochettino’s tactical tweaks limited space for Džeko’s runs. The match remained 1‑0 until the final whistle.

The 1‑0 victory moves Pochettino’s side into the round of 16, delivering the first knockout‑stage win on home soil since 2002. It also strengthens the United States’ position in Group C, keeping them on pace for a potential quarter‑final run. Bosnia‑Herzegovina exits the tournament with a respectable performance despite the narrow defeat.