The group stage puzzle is locking into place, and for the USMNT, the path forward is officially set. While several groups are still in the thick of the action, the opening round is a wrap for the U.S. Men’s National Team. Under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, the Stars and Stripes have punched their ticket to the newly introduced Round of 32 by securing the top spot in Group D. Now, a historic European test awaits them in Northern California.
How group D was won
The USMNT roared through the opening round, finishing as Group D winners to secure their first World Cup group-stage triumph since 2010. Pochettino’s squad found their rhythm immediately in front of the home crowds:
- USA 4–1 Paraguay (SoFi Stadium, LA): The Americans opened their tournament in style, dismantling a physical Paraguay side and setting a dominant tone for the group.
- USA 2–0 Australia (Lumen Field, Seattle): A masterclass in tournament management. This clinical victory officially qualified the USMNT as section winners with a game to spare.
- USA 2–3 Türkiye (SoFi Stadium, LA): With the group already wrapped up, Pochettino heavily rotated his squad, making nine changes to the starting lineup.
Who will the team face in the round of 32?
The USMNT’s round of 32 opponent was confirmed by the final results in Group F, where Sweden’s 1–1 draw against Japan mathematically dictated the wildcard bracket placement. The U.S. will square off against Bosnia and Herzegovina. This also marks a milestone for the European side, as it is the first time in their history that they have qualified for the World Cup knockout stage.
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path to the knockouts
- Match 1: Fought to a gritty 1–1 draw against co-hosts Canada.
- Match 2: Suffered a tough 4–1 defeat to Group B winners Switzerland.
- Match 3: Responded with their backs against the wall to defeat Qatar 3–1, punching their ticket as a third-place qualifier.
Details of the knockout stage
In this expanded 48-team format, a team must survive eight matches instead of the traditional seven to lift the trophy. Luckily, the team gets to stay entirely localized on the West Coast for the immediate future. From here on out, it is strictly win or go home.
Round of 32 Schedule
- Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
- Location: San Francisco Bay Area Stadium (Levi’s Stadium) — Santa Clara, CA
