USA face Bosnia in World Cup knockouts with pride, credentials on the line
The United States face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup round of 32 after a mixed group stage, with coach Mauricio Pochettino having reshaped the lineup and tactics. Despite a recent loss to Turkiye, the team remains confident but faces questions about their ability to compete with European opponents.
A year ago, even Zlatan Ibrahimovic doubted the USA could contend for the World Cup. After their first two group wins, he changed his mind. However, a 3-2 loss to Turkiye on Thursday served as a reality check. USA defender Mark McKenzie said the next round is a clean slate and the team wants to go far.
The USA have a chance to regain momentum against Bosnia in the round of 32 on Wednesday in Santa Clara, California.
Since last June, much has changed. Coach Mauricio Pochettino has settled on a lineup: only four players from a year ago remain in the starting XI. He prefers a 4-2-3-1 but has used a three-man defense to allow full-backs to support attackers. Antonee Robinson is now healthy, and veteran Tim Ream adds composure in central defense. Midfield is anchored by Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, with Folarin Balogun up front.
Pochettino has also adjusted tactics to emphasize an all-out, high-pressing approach. The team deliberately concedes throw-ins to set up presses, a tactic copied from Paris Saint-Germain. This aggressive style carries risks, such as players being nutmegged. Against Turkiye, a key sequence saw Arda Guler nutmeg Christian Pulisic to set up the winning goal.
The USA have a poor historical record against European teams: three wins, 15 losses, and seven draws, with only one victory since 1950. They have been warned by former goalkeeper Tim Howard, who said it is "literally impossible" for the USA to win the World Cup, as they would need to play four perfect games in a row against top teams.
Despite the criticism, the team draws energy from surging fan support. The loss to Turkiye may serve as a wake-up call as they prepare to face Bosnia.
