Co-hosts USA continue their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey with a Round of 32 showdown against Bosnia & Herzegovina at SoFi Stadium in California. With a place in the last 16 at stake, Mauricio Pochettino’s side will look to capitalize on home advantage against a Bosnia team making its World Cup knockout debut.

Match Preview

USA Looking to Make Home Advantage Count

The United States topped Group D after impressive victories over Australia and Switzerland before suffering a narrow defeat to Turkey in a match where several first-team players were rested. That loss did little to dampen confidence as the Americans had already secured first place.

Pochettino has built an exciting team capable of creating plenty of scoring opportunities. The USA attempted at least 10 shots in every group-stage match and their last eight internationals have averaged an impressive 4.4 goals per game.

Despite a poor historical record against European opposition at the World Cup, the Stars and Stripes will believe home support and recent performances can help them reach the Round of 16.

Bosnia Hoping to Extend Their Historic Run

Bosnia & Herzegovina qualified for the knockout stage after finishing third in Group B, sealing their place with a convincing 3-1 victory over Qatar.

While Sergej Barbarez’s side have shown resilience throughout qualifying and the group stage, defensive frailties remain their biggest concern. Bosnia have now played six World Cup matches without keeping a clean sheet and conceded six goals during the group phase.

However, their attacking quality continues to shine, with both teams scoring in 11 of Bosnia’s last 12 international matches.

Head-to-Head Record

The United States remain unbeaten in the previous three meetings between these nations.

• USA Wins: 2
• Draws: 1
• Bosnia Wins: 0

Their last encounter came in an international friendly in 2021.

Key Stats

• USA’s last eight matches have averaged 4.4 total goals.
• USA recorded 10 or more shots in every group-stage fixture.
• Bosnia have seen Both Teams To Score land in 11 of their last 12 internationals.
• Bosnia have registered at least three shots on target in 12 of their last 13 matches.
• USA have won six of their last nine competitive home matches.

Players to Watch

USA – Folarin Balogun

Balogun has scored six goals in his last 11 international appearances, including two during the World Cup group stage. His pace and finishing make him the biggest threat in the American attack.

Bosnia & Herzegovina – Ermin Mahmić

Mahmić made a huge impact from the bench during the group stage, scoring twice in two substitute appearances and proving dangerous late in matches.

Team News

USA will assess defenders Mark McKenzie and Auston Trusty before kickoff.

Bosnia receive a timely boost with Tarik Muharemović returning from suspension.

Betting Tips

• USA to Win ✅
• Both Teams To Score – Yes ✅
• Over 2.5 Goals ✅
• Folarin Balogun Anytime Goalscorer ✅

Correct Score Prediction

USA 3-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina

The Americans have looked far more balanced throughout the tournament and should take advantage of Bosnia’s defensive vulnerabilities. Bosnia possess enough attacking quality to get on the scoresheet, but USA’s superior pace and home support should prove decisive.

Final Prediction

🏆 USA to Win

⚽ Both Teams To Score – Yes

🔥 Over 2.5 Goals

⭐ Folarin Balogun Anytime Goalscorer

🎯 Correct Score: USA 3-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina

The hosts are expected to continue their impressive World Cup campaign by producing an attacking display that secures a comfortable passage into the Round of 16.