Mauricio Pochettino's US men's national team won their group with impressive performances, but their path to the World Cup title likely requires defeating several of the world's best teams. The expanded 48-team tournament, which reduces to 32 for the knockout stage, creates complex scenarios, but the focus remains on the potential matchups ahead.
Round of 32: Bosnia and Herzegovina
The US will face Bosnia and Herzegovina on 1 July at 8pm ET in Santa Clara. Bosnia, led by 40-year-old striker Edin Džeko and 22-year-old winger Kerim Alajbegović, secured third place in Group B with a 3-1 win over Qatar. They are strong in penalty shootouts, having beaten Wales and Italy in qualification. However, the US possesses superior individual talent and fluid possession, making a dominant start likely. Bosnia's best hope is to defend stoutly and score from set-pieces or force penalties. US chances rating: 7/10.
Round of 16: Belgium
Belgium, predicted opponents on 6 July in Seattle, appear to be a fading elite after missing their championship window. Their 5-1 win over New Zealand contrasts with tepid draws against Egypt and Iraq. The US can draw on memory of their 2-1 extra-time loss to Belgium in the 2014 World Cup, with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku scoring. A 5-2 friendly loss in Atlanta three months ago, though both teams were under-strength, provided a learning experience. Belgium remain a top-10 side, but the US would be confident facing them. US chances rating: 6/10.
Quarter-finals: Spain
Spain, the European champions and tournament second-favorites, are the likely quarter-final opponents on 10 July in Los Angeles. Their creative spark relies on 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, and their possession-heavy style does not guarantee goals, as seen in a goalless draw with Cape Verde and a 1-0 win over Uruguay. Spain are better than at Qatar 2022, but the US could thrive as underdogs at home. However, the US may lack the defensive discipline needed against a top team. US chances rating: 3/10.
Semi-finals: France
France, the most impressive group-stage team, are the predicted semi-final opponents on 14 July in Dallas. Their attacking depth is immense, but defensive lapses were evident when Norway scored seconds after a French goal in a 4-1 win. The US, with Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun, could test France's back line if given freedom to attack. However, France are not Paraguay, and a stretched game could lead to a thrashing. US chances rating: 2/10.
Final: England
A US-England final on 19 July in New York-New Jersey would be a historic match-up. The US team, with a former Premier League manager and players familiar with English football, could stun Thomas Tuchel's side through spirit and home advantage. If the US reach this stage, they would be destined to win. US chances rating: 10/10.
