Mauricio Pochettino's USA side secured a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, booking their place in the World Cup last 16. Goals from Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman, despite a red card for Balogun, sealed the win.
First-half breakthrough
After a cagey opening, Folarin Balogun put the USA ahead just before half-time, finishing after a well-worked move. The Monaco striker had earlier had a goal disallowed for offside. Christian Pulisic also had a shot closed down by the Bosnia defense, while USA goalkeeper Matt Freese saved a header from Ermedin Demirović.
Balogun sent off
Early in the second half, Balogun was shown a straight red card by referee Raphael Claus after landing awkwardly on the ankle of Tarik Muharemović, a decision upheld by VAR. Despite being down to 10 men, the USA continued to press.
Tillman's free-kick seals it
Malik Tillman scored a sensational free-kick to double the lead, sparking celebrations among fans in the stadium and at watch parties across the US, including in New York and Washington DC. Christian Pulisic had a goal disallowed for offside earlier in the half.
Last-16 clash with Belgium
The victory sets up a last-16 tie against Belgium in Seattle. Fans gathered at fan parks in Washington DC and Mission Beach in San Diego to watch the match. The atmosphere outside the stadium was festive, with fans playing keepy-ups and showing their support in colorful attire.
