USMNT’s Toughest World Cup Test Yet: Facing a Historic Bosnia Squad Led by a Wisconsin-Born Star

A New Chapter for Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup

After a disappointing late-game collapse in a 4-1 loss to Switzerland on June 18, the Bosnian and Herzegovinian national team faced a critical moment. Coach Sergej Barbarez addressed his squad with a clear message: “Life moves on and we will not whine now.” This statement reflected the determination of the team to move forward and prove their resilience.

Bosnia and Herzegovina responded brilliantly, defeating Qatar 3-1 to finish third in Group B. This victory was pivotal, as it secured their place among the eight third-place finishers who advanced to the round of 32. This marked a historic milestone for the nation, as it became the first time that Bosnia and Herzegovina reached the knockout stage of a World Cup.

Now, the team has an opportunity to play a significant role in the tournament by facing one of the host nations, the United States. A spot in the round of 16 is at stake, and the pressure is high. It’s worth noting that the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) has never defeated a European-based team in a World Cup knockout round match. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming game.

At coach Barbarez’s disposal is Edin Džeko, a 40-year-old striker who holds the record as the all-time top scorer for Bosnia and Herzegovina with 73 goals. He also leads in caps with 150 appearances. Džeko’s experience and leadership are invaluable to the team. However, much of the pregame focus might not be on the veteran striker but rather on Esmir Bajraktarević.

Bosnia and Herzegovina projected starting lineup vs. USA

Bosnia and Herzegovina coach Sergej Barbarez has made full use of his 26-man World Cup roster, using 16 different players in his starting XI and 21 total through three matches.

• Goalkeeper: Nikola Vasilj
• Defenders: Sead Kolašinac, Tarik Muharemović, Nikola Katić, Amar Dedić
• Midfielders: Kerim Alajbegović, Ivan Šunjić, Ivan Bašić, Esmir Bajraktarevic
• Forwards: Edin Džeko, Ermedin Demirović

How to watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs USA World Cup round of 32 game: TV, live streaming

The Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. USA round of 32 match on July 1 will be broadcast nationally on FOX, with Spanish-language coverage available via Telemundo. The game can be live streamed through FOX One, Peacock (Spanish-language) and Fubo.

• Date: Wednesday, July 1
• Time: 8 p.m. ET
• TV: FOX, Telemundo
• Stream: FOX One, Peacock, Fubo
• Location: Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara, California)

Bosnia and Herzegovina 2026 World Cup roster

Goalkeepers: Nikola Vasilj (FC St. Pauli), Martin Zlomislić (HNK Rijeka), Mladen Jurkas (Borac Banja Luka)

Defenders: Sead Kolašinac (Atalanta BC), Amar Dedić (SL Benfica), Nihad Mujakić (Gaziantep FK), Nikola Katić (Schalke 04), Tarik Muharemović (US Sassuolo), Stjepan Radeljić (HNK Rijeka), Dennis Hadžikadunić (UC Sampdoria), Arjan Malić (Sturm Graz)

Midfielders: Amir Hadžiahmetović (Hull City), Ivan Šunjić (Pafos FC), Ivan Bašić (FC Astana), Dženis Burnić (Karlsruher SC), Ermin Mahmić (FC Slovan Liberec), Benjamin Tahirović (Bröndby IF), Amar Memić (FC Viktoria Plzen), Armin Gigović (BSC Young Boys)

Forwards: Kerim Alajbegović (RB Salzburg), Esmir Bajraktarević (PSV Eindhoven), Ermedin Demirović (VfB Stuttgart), Jovo Lukić (FC Universitatea Cluj), Samed Baždar (Jagiellonia Białystok), Haris Tabaković (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Edin Džeko (Schalke 04)

Bajraktarević, born in Appleton, Wisconsin, played in Major League Soccer (MLS) for the New England Revolution. He represented the United States at multiple youth levels, which makes his decision to play for Bosnia and Herzegovina even more notable. His parents were born in the country, and this connection ultimately led him to choose the Bosnian and Herzegovinian national team.

The story of Bajraktarević highlights the personal choices athletes make and the emotional ties they have to their heritage. His presence on the team brings a unique dynamic, especially given his background in American soccer. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will perform in this crucial match against the U.S.

As the World Cup progresses, each game becomes more intense, and the stakes continue to rise. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, this match against the United States represents a chance to make history and further solidify their place in the tournament. The team’s journey so far has been filled with challenges, but their resilience and determination have brought them to this point.

With the support of their fans and the backing of their experienced players, Bosnia and Herzegovina is ready to face the host nation. Whether it’s through the leadership of Džeko or the potential of Bajraktarević, the team is poised to make a strong showing. The upcoming match promises to be an exciting and pivotal moment in the World Cup, and all eyes will be on Bosnia and Herzegovina as they take on the United States.