SOCCER: US keep World Cup dream alive with gutsy win over Bosnia

SANTA CLARA, California — The United States moved into the last 16 of the World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Bosnia on Wednesday, ending a 24-year wait for a knockout-stage win and keeping alive hopes of an American run in soccer’s global showpiece.

In a dramatic, high-tempo match in the San Francisco Bay Area, the United States men's national soccer team struck first just before halftime through Folarin Balogun. However, the forward was later sent off after the break. Despite being reduced to 10 men, the U.S. held firm, and Malik Tillman converted a late free kick to seal the win and spark celebrations in a partisan arena filled with red, white and blue.

The victory ended a run of 10 consecutive defeats by European opposition and set up a last-16 clash in Seattle against Belgium, who earlier rallied from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time.

“I felt we put on such a good performance and didn’t deserve the red card,” said Christian Pulisic.

“But for us to dig in deep like that and just to get another goal and to defend the way we did, it took a real team effort, but we’re proud of that.”

It was a physical contest in California, where fortune was not always on the hosts’ side. Goals from Balogun and Pulisic were ruled out, while Bosnia’s compact defensive shape repeatedly disrupted U.S. attacking rhythm.

Balogun remained a constant threat throughout the first half, coming close on several occasions before capitalizing on a loose ball to open the scoring—his third goal of the tournament. He was later shown a red card after the break for a serious foul on Tarik Muharemovic that appeared accidental.

Bosnia, playing in their first-ever World Cup knockout match, created few clear chances and largely relied on a disciplined defensive block and long balls aimed at Edin Dzeko, who forced an early save from goalkeeper Matt Freese.

The match opened with a display of patriotic atmosphere, including a flyover by fighter jets, as the U.S. started brightly with quick passing, attacking intent, and high energy, driven by a vocal crowd chanting “U-S-A.”

The United States men's national soccer team responded with intensity and resilience, with talisman Christian Pulisic returning to the lineup and driving forward runs that kept the opposition under pressure despite the numerical disadvantage.

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the team’s mentality and collective effort after the match.

“The team showed the qualities, the capacity to compete, to fight for each other,” he said. “Yes, I am so proud, so proud about the players. They are the heroes.”

Bosnia coach Sergej Barbarez said his side was disappointed not to create more chances but encouraged by their overall tournament performance.

“We should hold our heads up high and we can really improve and build on this,” he said. -Reporting by Martin Petty; Editing by Toby Davis and Ken Ferris/Reuters