San Francisco Bay Area Stadium hosts the World Cup last 32 on Thursday morning as USA take on Bosnia-Herzegovina, with a place in the round of 16 against Belgium or Senegal at stake.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side topped Group D with six points, beating Paraguay 4–1 and Australia 2–0 before rotating wholesale for a 3–2 loss to Türkiye in a dead rubber. The Stars and Stripes have not won a World Cup knockout match since 2002, and they have lost their last 12 meetings against UEFA nations.
USA team news
Christian Pulisic is fit and expected to start for the first time since the opening group game against Paraguay. The AC Milan forward contributed to both of the USA’s opening goals in the 4–1 victory before a calf injury forced him out of the Australia match.
He came off the bench against Türkiye and immediately raised the quality of play around him. Pulisic told reporters on Tuesday he is “feeling good” and Pochettino has confirmed his inclusion.
Three players face fitness checks before the squad is finalised. Cristian Roldan has not played a single minute at this tournament due to a muscle injury and remains a significant doubt, though he is not in the projected XI regardless.
Mark McKenzie is managing a foot issue, and Auston Trusty is working through an ankle problem — both are unlikely to start but could feature from the bench if cleared.
The four players rested against Türkiye due to yellow card risk — Tyler Adams, Folarin Balogun, Chris Richards and Antonee Robinson — all return. Adams and Malik Tillman form the double pivot, providing the defensive cover that allows Weston McKennie and Pulisic to operate higher.
Sergino Dest covers the right flank, Robinson the left. Balogun leads the line having scored twice and registered an assist in his opening two appearances. Alex Freeman and Tim Ream complete the back four alongside Richards. Matt Freese continues in goal.
USA predicted lineup
USA possible starting XI (4-2-3-1): Freese; Freeman, Richards, Ream, Robinson; Adams, Tillman; Dest, McKennie, Pulisic; Balogun
When will the match kick off?
The FIFA World Cup last-32 match kicks off at 01:00 BST on Thursday, 2 July 2026.
How to watch USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina?
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
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