United States face Bosnia and Herzegovina in World Cup round of 32

The United States men’s national team will face a physical and set-piece specialist Bosnia and Herzegovina side in the World Cup round of 32 at Levi’s Stadium on Wednesday.

The tournament co-hosts have enjoyed a strong campaign so far, advancing after victories over Paraguay and Australia.

Despite a heavily rotated side suffering a stoppage-time defeat to Türkiye in their final group game, expectations remain high for the American squad.

They enter the knockout stages as heavy favourites against an opponent currently sitting 61st in the Fifa world rankings.

Physical test awaits the hosts

Bosnia progressed to the last 32 as one of the best third-placed teams following mixed group stage results against Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.

Manager Sergej Barbarez has built a resolute, defensively minded unit since taking charge earlier this year.

The European outfit are expected to deploy a low block and a five-man defence to frustrate the American attack.

They have proven to be an aggressive side, committing an average of nearly 16 fouls per game and collecting six yellow cards during the group phase.

Set-piece specialists pose major threat

While the visitors have struggled to dominate possession, they are exceptionally dangerous from dead-ball situations.

Barbarez’s men have scored three of their four tournament goals from set pieces, compensating for a relatively low expected goals ratio.

The squad features a heavy youthful influence, driven by diaspora players who were developed across Europe and the United States.

Among them is 21-year-old winger Esmir Bajraktarevic, who made a single appearance for the US before switching his international allegiance.

The Americans will need to dictate the tempo and show immense patience to break down their resilient opponents in California.