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All three FIFA World Cup 2026 co-hosts, the United States, Mexico, and Canada, advanced from the Round of 32 with victories to secure places in the Round of 16.
The United States, the tournament’s primary host, became the last of the three co-hosts to advance, defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0. Mexico and Canada had already booked their spots in the Round of 16.
The victory reaffirmed the United States’ strong tournament campaign, demonstrating that its earlier successes reflected the preparation and hard work the team invested ahead of hosting the competition.
Bosnia and Herzegovina reached the knockout stage after a hard-fought victory over Qatar in its final group match. The team had opened its campaign with a 1-1 draw against co-host Canada before losing to Switzerland. Bosnia and Herzegovina joined Switzerland and Canada as the three teams from the group to advance to the knockout stage.
The United States entered the match looking to rebound after its final group-stage loss to Turkey. Bosnia and Herzegovina, playing with little to lose, matched the Americans for long stretches and created several opportunities but was unable to capitalize.
The breakthrough came just before halftime when Folarin Balogun gave the United States the lead. Late in the second half, Malik Tillman doubled the advantage with a free kick, only the second goal of the tournament scored directly from a free kick. The first came from Canada’s Nathan Saliba, who converted after replacing the injured Ismaël Koné earlier in the competition.
Despite taking a two-goal lead, the United States remained alert defensively as Bosnia and Herzegovina continued pressing in search of a goal.
The United States will face Belgium in the Round of 16.
Earlier in the day, England rallied from a 1-0 deficit to defeat Congo and earn a Round of 16 matchup against Mexico. Belgium also advanced after edging Senegal 3-2, scoring the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the closing moments of extra time.
