United States National Team Advances Again

Zak Drapeau
3 days ago
3 min read

by Zak Drapeau

Sportz Nation - 7/2/2026

Photo Credits to Martin Meissner via Associated Press

The United States had another brush with the 2026 World Cup last night and ended up victorious again against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

By a score of 2-0, the United States won the game with very little space besides the score line separating the teams. The USA definitely had more chances and more time spent in their opponents' box but were actually outshot by Bosnia who had 2 more total shots and 1 more shot on goal in the game.

The game was a chess match for the entire first half, with multiple stoppages in play for injuries and hydration breaks often coming just in time to cancel the rhythm of one side or another. Both teams would have a few shots and only 1 shot on target through the first 45 minutes but it would be the Americans who took most advantage.

Thanks to an incredibly lucky bounce that saw two Bosnian defenders mishandle the ball, USA striker Folarin Balogun would see the ball land right at his feet in the middle of the box and strike the ball just hard enough to sneak between the keepers' legs and open the scoring in extra time of the first half.

Photo Credits to Robert Gauthier via Los Angeles Times

Shortly into the 2nd half, the U.S. would suffer a set back on paper in the 64th minute when a controversial red card was handed down to their top striker Folarin Balogun. After jockeying for position and trying to win a tackle, Balogun unintentionally brought his leg down in an attempt to balance himself but instead stepped across Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic's leg. The action was light but brought Muharemovic to the ground and after a VAR-assisted replay, referee Raphael Claus sent the American off to make it 11-on-10.

The red card given to Folarin Balogun dictates that Balogun "will not be allowed to play in their subsequent match", - FIFA. Meaning, Balogun will be on the bench for the United States Round of 16 matchup.

Luckily for the USA, their play didn't slow down a bit afterward and in fact their defense stepped up. Their backline of Chris Richards and Captain Tim Ream were incredible in this game and seemed to sharpen the later they got into the game.

With the 1-0 lead holding for what seemed like way too long, the United States would be fouled 20 yards away from the goal on the left side of the box. With the team's top free kick takers Antonee Robinson and Malik Tillman setting up to take the opportunity.

Photo Credits to Xinhua via Shutterstock

It would be Tillman chosen to make the kick and with a graceful, bending shot to the left side of the goal that was actually grazed by the goalkeeper, Tillman extended the lead to 2-0 in the 82nd minute.

After the late set piece was scored this game was put on the backburner until the final whistle blew. The United States national team as well as the 68,000 fans in attendance were sent into jubilation with the prospect of another chance at this year's world cup.

That chance will come to fruition on Monday, July 6th, at Lumen Field in Seattle and will be against Belgium. The Belgian national team are coming off possibly the craziest comeback in a World Cup game ever when they were down 2-0 in the 85th minute and ended up winning 3-2 at the end of the overtime period.

They're matchup on the 6th is already considered a push by most oddsmakers with each team sitting at -110 to advance.

Let's Go USA!!!!