Mauricio Pochettino's United States team won their World Cup group with impressive performances. Their path to the final would likely require beating some of the world's best teams. The US will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 on 1 July in Santa Clara.
Round of 32: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia's veteran striker Edin Džeko remains influential at age 40. Winger Kerim Alajbegović, 22 years younger, scored in their 3-1 win over Qatar that secured third place in Group B and a first knockout stage appearance. The US should avoid penalties, as Bosnia beat Wales and Italy on spot-kicks in qualification play-offs. Sergej Barbarez's physical side is resolute but the Americans have superior individual talent and fluid possession. The US chances of victory rating: 7/10.
Round of 16: Predicted Belgium
Belgium appears to be a fading elite after missing their tournament window. Their 5-1 win over New Zealand lifted them to top of Group G, but tepid ties with Egypt and Iraq raise doubts. The US should be wary but not fearful. This fixture evokes memories of the 2014 World Cup 2-1 extra time loss to Belgium, with goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku. Belgium also won 5-2 in a friendly three months ago, though both teams were under-strength. The US chances of victory rating: 6/10.
Quarter-finals: Predicted Spain
European champions and second-favourites Spain rely heavily on 18-year-old Lamine Yamal for creativity. Their goalless draw with Cape Verde and 1-0 win over Uruguay showed possession doesn't guarantee goals. Spain are better than at Qatar 2022 when they lost to Morocco on penalties. The US would need defensive discipline and tactical rigidity they haven't shown against higher-ranked teams. The US chances of victory rating: 3/10.
Semi-finals: Predicted France
Didier Deschamps' France were the most impressive group-stage nation, with tremendous attacking flair. Their 4-1 win over Norway came after conceding a goal seconds after the restart when leading 2-0, showing some defensive lapses. The US could test France with Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun given freedom to overlap. But France are not Paraguay, and if they've beaten Germany and Netherlands en route, their defense is likely good enough. The US chances of victory rating: 2/10.
Final: Predicted England
A US-England final in New York-New Jersey on 19 July would be historic. With former Premier League manager Pochettino and players with English experience, the Americans have familiarity to stun Thomas Tuchel's side. Spirit, confidence, and home advantage could compensate for inferior individual skill. The US chances of victory rating: 10/10.
