Bosnia and Herzegovina Set to Face United States in 2026 World Cup Round of 32

Bosnia and Herzegovina have been drawn as the United States men’s national team’s opponent in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, with the match scheduled for July 1 in Santa Clara, California. The Bosnian side, known as the Zmajevi (Dragons), qualified after a group stage that included a 1-1 draw with Canada, a 4-1 loss to Switzerland and a 3-1 victory over Qatar.

Veteran striker Edin Džeko, 40, remains a focal point for the Bosnian squad. He has earned 150 caps and scored 73 goals, a record that surpasses his national teammates by a wide margin. Džeko’s personal story, including a wartime childhood in Sarajevo, has resonated with Bosnian supporters abroad.

"He’s our Tom Brady," said Suljo Patkovic, a Bosnian-American fan, adding that Džeko is viewed as a unifying figure for the team.

Coach Sergej Barbarez, 54, has employed a 4-4-2 formation with two defensive midfielders throughout the group matches. Regular starters include goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, left-back Sead Kolasinac, defensive midfielder Ivan Basic, striker Ermedin Demirović and MLS-based forward Esmir Bajraktarević. The team kept opponents to a single goal in each group game and showed strong possession against Canada, though defensive lapses appeared against Switzerland.

The United States have faced Bosnia and Herzegovina three times, all in friendly matches since 2013, winning twice and drawing once. The most notable encounter was a 4-3 friendly win in Sarajevo, highlighted by Jozy Altidore’s hat-trick.

Bosnia and Herzegovina are making only their second World Cup appearance as an independent nation, having previously competed in 2014 where they exited after the group stage. Their performance this tournament will test the United States ahead of the knockout round.