USMNT Faces Bosnia and Herzegovina: Round of 32 Preview

SAN JOSE, Calif. — The U.S. Men’s National Team had a solid showing in the group stage. However, that success will mean little if they can’t secure a win against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday night in Santa Clara.

This round of 32 match-up is distinct from previous tournaments. A loss here doesn’t allow the U.S. to brush off the tournament as a success. But it’s not going to be an easy game, either.

Here’s a look at what to expect from the clash between Team USA and Bosnia.

When the US has the ball

With no injuries affecting the starting lineup, the U.S. will likely field the same eleven who began the opening match against Paraguay.

Like previous games against Australia and Paraguay, the Americans are expected to dominate possession, as Bosnia tends to play a more defensive style.

Bosnia will likely adopt a low block, absorbing pressure and looking to hit on the counter. While their 4-4-2 formation is straightforward, the strategy to break it isn’t exactly rocket science.

Creating width to generate gaps in their defense is the key.

This places a lot of responsibility on Sergiño Dest on the right and Anthony “Jedi” Robinson on the left.

Additionally, Christian Pulisic’s presence could be pivotal. He’s anticipated to play the entire 90 minutes and his talent for generating offensive plays will be crucial, especially if the U.S. struggles to crack Bosnia’s defensive code.

However, Bosnia boasts some imposing center backs, Nikola Katić and Stepan Radelic, standing 6’4” and 6’7” respectively, so the aerial game might not favor the U.S.

While Bosnia may press high at times to force the U.S. into long balls, generally speaking, Team USA has handled pressing situations well throughout the tournament. They should be capable of building from the back.

When Bosnia has the ball

There’s something straightforward yet effective about Bosnia’s approach. Their 4-4-2 formation shifts to 4-2-4 when in possession, with full-backs pushed high and wingers drifting inside, allowing key players like Edin Dzeko and Elmedin Demirovic to capitalize on crosses.

Ermin Makhmiku, a substitute in their last two matches, has found the net in both games, showcasing their attacking potential.

However, a primary concern for the U.S. will be Bosnia’s quick transitions and their ability to launch counterattacks. Mauricio Pochettino’s tactical setup emphasizes aggressive defensive play, with Tim Ream and Chris Richards often joining the attack.

The speed and skill of Bosnian wingers Kerim Alajbegovic and Esmir Vajraktarevic could create challenges for the U.S. during rapid transitions, especially when both teams are committing numbers forward.

That said, it’s worth noting that Bosnia isn’t typically a high-scoring team. Before their recent 3-1 victory over Qatar, it had been seven games since they scored more than once, with their last goal being against Romania’s ten-man squad back in November.

Something intangible

While this might not be labeled the greatest match in USMNT history, it’s arguably their best shot at a World Cup final win since 2002.

For Bosnia, this contest is monumental. They’ve never qualified for the European Championship and only made a single World Cup appearance in 2014, where they didn’t progress beyond the group stage. Regardless of any outward bravado, both sides will feel the pressure.

Considering the advantage of playing at home and the U.S. team’s strong performances thus far, it’s hard not to feel that the Americans hold an edge going into this game.

Prediction

U.S.A. 2, Bosnia 1. A close contest, but the U.S. triumphs without needing extra time.