World Cup 2026 Soccer USMNT could see ‘similarity’ with Bosnia during World Cup Round of 32 clash By Ethan Sears Published June 30, 2026, 1:01 a.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results.
Add The New York Post on Google IRVINE, Calif. — One reason to be optimistic about the U.S. national team’s chances in the Round of 32 against Bosnia-Herzegovina: The rhythm of the game figures to be similar to its two group-stage wins.
That is to say, though there are plenty of differences between Bosnia, Paraguay and Australia, Bosnia — like the other two — will likely cede much of the possession to the U.S., which is just how Mauricio Pochettino’s side likes it.
“There’s obviously a similarity,” captain Tim Ream said. “It’s one of those things that you expect to come up against: similar things throughout tournaments, right? … There’s always things that can be thrown at you. I don’t know that we fully expect Bosnia to just be defensive.”
Mauricio Pochettino reacts from the sideline during the USMNT’s June 19 match against Australia. FIFA via Getty Images Bosnia does have some high-end attacking talent in Esmir Bajraktarevic, Kerim Alajbegovic and Edin Džeko, but generally prefers to play on the counterattack, at least against more talented teams.
The U.S. can expect to see a low block, albeit in a 4-4-2 shape as opposed to the 5-4-1 it successfully broke down against Australia.
Nevertheless, if that is indeed the shape of the game, it will play into the Americans’ strengths.
“We know it’s not gonna be easy,” Gio Reyna said. “We have to be at our best. I’m sure we’ll come up with a great game plan. Intensity and energy has to be there if we want to win this game.”
Tim Ream controls the ball during the USMNT’s June 19 win against Australia. AP Photo Though the U.S. may train in Irvine again if it makes the quarterfinals — which would be in Los Angeles — Monday was its last day at the Orange County base camp.
Every match of the FIFA World Cup will air on either FOX or FOX Sports 1. If you don’t have cable, you can take advantage of a DIRECTV free trial to stream it all.
Prefer to check out the action live and in person? Shop World Cup 2026 tickets on SeatGeek and make sure to use promo code NYPOST10 for $10 off purchases over $250 at checkout if you’re a first-time SeatGeek user.
The USMNT has been set up in idyllic conditions, with a swanky hotel overlooking the ocean in Dana Point, Calif.
“Some of us go down to the beach, some of us will just hang out with our families at times,” Reyna said when asked how the team spent its downtime. “Some of us hang out in our rooms, play video games. Just lay low and enjoy the time together. But at the same time, we just sit outside, enjoy the beautiful weather we’ve had for the last couple weeks.”
Built for match days and everyday wear, this officially licensed USMNT tee brings classic national pride wherever you go.
Rep your favorite player in classic navy with this officially licensed tee made for diehard fans and big match energy.
Stay warm while repping the red, white, and blue in this officially licensed USMNT pullover hoodie featuring bold front and back crest graphics.
Celebrate the global game in style with this FIFA World Cup 26 tee featuring all three host countries’ logos and flags.
Rip into the excitement of World Cup season with this 2026 Panini sticker box packed with 25 packs of collectible stickers for fans and traders.
Bring World Cup vibes to every kickaround with the official adidas FIFA World Cup ’26 Soccer Ball built with host nation style and game-ready feel.
The USMNT continued to train with just 23 players.
Auston Trusty (ankle) and Cristian Roldan (quad strain) have graduated to modified individual training, while Mark McKenzie received treatment on an irritated foot.
