Football’s global allure is clear, yet many supporters struggle with the intricacies of tournament formats. The recent shift to a 48-team World Cup has added complexity, particularly as teams gear up for the knockout stages. In this context, Mauricio Pochettino’s squad is preparing to face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32. With anticipation building, discussions about the team’s potential journey are framed around motivational phrases that resonate with their manager.
As the tournament progresses, the United States stands on the brink of a challenging yet thrilling quest for the finals.
The US’s potential path to the final
Round of 32
Opponent: Bosnia and Herzegovina (1 July, 8pm ET, Santa Clara)
In a competition rich with experienced players, striker Edin Džeko remains a key figure at the age of 40. Simultaneously, the 22-year-old winger Kerim Alajbegović has emerged as a notable talent, having recently scored in the 3-1 win over Qatar, marking Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first-ever progression to the knockout stage. The US team will strive to avoid a penalty shootout, especially since their opponents have successfully navigated qualification play-offs against both Wales and Italy. While Bosnia’s squad has displayed resilience and growth after a challenging qualifying phase, the Americans possess superior individual talents and a more cohesive playing style. It is easy to imagine a scenario where the home team establishes control early on, while Bosnia seeks to capitalize on set pieces or perhaps relies on another penalty shootout.
Why not us? US chances of victory rating: 7/10
Round of 16
Predicted opponent: Belgium (6 July, 8pm ET, Seattle)
Belgium seems to be experiencing a decline, showcasing a roster of once-celebrated players who may have passed their peak. Despite their recent 5-1 victory over New Zealand suggesting potential, it does not overshadow their disappointing draws against Egypt and Iraq. The US should approach this match with caution, recalling the painful 2-1 extra-time loss to Belgium in the last 16 of the 2014 World Cup, when Belgium secured victory through goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku. Previous encounters, including a 5-2 defeat in a friendly in Atlanta, have taught Pochettino’s squad valuable lessons, particularly in maintaining possession. If the US faces a top-10 nation this early, Belgium may be the most favorable opponent, with a victory here potentially serving as a major confidence booster.
Why not us? rating: 6/10
Quarter-finals
Predicted opponent: Spain (10 July, 3pm ET, Los Angeles)
As the current European champions and one of the tournament favorites, Spain is expected to be a significant challenge for the US. However, their dependence on 18-year-old Lamine Yamal for creativity raises concerns about their overall efficiency. Their recent goalless draw against Cape Verde and a narrow 1-0 victory over Uruguay indicate that they are not invulnerable. Competing on home soil may invigorate the US team, allowing them to thrive as underdogs without the weight of high expectations. Should Spain underperform while the Americans bring their best game, an upset could be within reach. Achieving such a result would likely require a level of defensive discipline and tactical organization that has sometimes eluded the US against higher-ranked teams.
Why not us? rating: 3/10
Semi-finals
Predicted opponent: France (14 July, 3pm ET, Dallas)
Didier Deschamps’ France has exhibited impressive form during the group stage, though their defensive weaknesses could pose challenges. For instance, they allowed Norway to score soon after establishing a 2-0 lead in their latest match, which they eventually won 4-1. The US squad, featuring dynamic talents like Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun, could test the French defense, especially if they replicate the ambition that overwhelmed Paraguay. Pochettino often expresses this sentiment.
“When people believe in each other, impossible dreams become possible,”
However, should France reach this point, they will likely have triumphed over formidable opponents like Germany and the Netherlands, indicating strong defensive capabilities. If the match devolves into a chaotic affair, the risk of a heavy defeat for the US could increase.
Why not us? rating: 2/10
Final
Predicted opponent: England (19 July, 3pm ET, New York-New Jersey)
A potential final between the US and England would resonate deeply, coinciding with the anniversary of the United States’ founding. This match symbolizes the core ideals that have defined American greatness over the past 250 years: ambition, hard work, and a readiness to seize opportunities. The World Cup has delivered excitement on all fronts, and a final showdown in New York (or New Jersey) would be a spectacle to behold. As the US contends with the disappointment of a canceled Vanilla Ice concert on the National Mall, a historic World Cup final would serve as a fitting remedy. Familiarity with English players and the presence of a former Premier League manager at the helm could provide the US with an advantage, enabling them to surprise Thomas Tuchel’s squad. The combination of team spirit, growing confidence, and home-field advantage may outweigh any differences in individual talent.
If the US reaches this stage, it would indicate something remarkable, suggesting they are on the verge of claiming the coveted trophy, which could find a place of honor alongside the Fifa Peace Prize in the Oval Office.
Why not us? rating: 10/10
- USA
- US sports
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- features
