The United States is headed to the FIFA World Cup round of 16 after defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 Wednesday night, earning the Americans their first knockout-round victory at the tournament in 24 years.
The win sends the U.S. into a Monday showdown with Belgium in Seattle, but the Americans will be without leading scorer Folarin Balogun, who was shown a red card in the second half and will serve a one-match suspension.
Balogun, who has been the United States’ most dangerous attacking player throughout the tournament, was sent off after inadvertently landing on the heel of a Bosnian defender. Despite playing the final portion of the match with 10 men, the Americans maintained control and secured the victory.
Midfielder Malik Tillman put the game away in the 82nd minute, curling a spectacular free kick over the defensive wall and beyond Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj to double the U.S. lead.
The Americans also recorded their second shutout of the tournament, continuing a strong defensive effort that has been a hallmark of their World Cup run.
The victory marks a significant milestone for the U.S. Men’s National Team, which won Group D before opening the knockout stage with an impressive performance against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Next up is Belgium, which rallied from a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 on Wednesday. Although Belgium’s veteran roster features several aging stars, it remains one of the tournament’s most experienced teams.
The matchup also renews a familiar rivalry. Belgium eliminated the United States with a 2-1 victory in the 2014 World Cup round of 16, with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku both scoring in that match. Belgium also defeated the Americans 5-2 in an international friendly earlier this year.
The winner of Monday’s match will advance to the World Cup quarterfinals.
Source: Axios