Instead, as Group D winners, the USA will go up against the third-place team from Group B. That is none other than Bosnia and Herzegovina, who finished with four points in their group with Switzerland, Canada, and Qatar. The USMNT will play Bosnia on the West Coast. More precisely, at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium (Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara) on July 1st at 8:00 p.m. ET.

At the latest venue to host the Super Bowl, the Stars and Stripes will have their own version of their most important game to date. Regardless of the result against Turkiye, they will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

More about USA’s next rival

While European national teams always demand respect in FIFA World Cups, the USA may have come across one of the least-daunting sides out of their possibilities. At least on paper, Bosnia and Herzegovina have had an irregular performance in the 2026 World Cup.

The Dragons started off the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Canada before losing 4-1 to Switzerland in a game that seemed destined to be a low-scoring affair until things got out of hand late. Bosnia and Herzegovina secured their spot in the round of 32 thanks to Sweden’s draw with Japan, but they had already laid the groundwork by taking down Qatar with a commanding 3-1 win over the Maroons.

Expect a physical matchup

The USMNT know they have their work cut out for them. In the elimination round of the 2026 World Cup, the tiniest mistake can be the difference between winning and losing, so Mauricio Pochettino’s side must be razor-sharp throughout the 90—and possibly 120 minutes.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, led by head coach Sergej Barbarez, play a physical style of soccer, relying heavily on their height and size to wear down opponents. Moreover, they pay close attention to set pieces and look to do damage in the aerial game.

With their performance against Canada in the opening game in the Great White North, the Dragons also proved they aren’t fazed by hostile environments or by having everything stacked against them.

USA’s opponents won’t be fazed

In the Golden State, American fans will aim to make life hell for the visitors, but these guests aren’t easily frightened and are used to adversity. It’s a common phrase, but not a cliché: the knockout stage is when the World Cup truly begins. If the United States don’t engrave that into their heads, they might be in for a rude awakening against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It’s true, the Dragons lack an elite star leading the way, but teams have fallen and dreams have been crushed at the hands of much weaker opponents before. The Stars and Stripes ought not to suffer that fate.

The Swiss took control shortly after halftime when Ruben Vargas opened the scoring in the 46th minute following an assist from Johan Manzambi. Switzerland doubled its advantage in the 57th minute as Manzambi found the net himself after being set up by Breel Embolo. Canada responded through Promise David in the 76th minute, with Nathan-Dylan Saliba providing the assist, but the comeback fell short.

At the same time, Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3-1 to climb level on points with Canada. Kerim Alajbegović gave Bosnia the lead in the 29th minute before an own goal from Sultan Al-Brake briefly leveled the score. Hasan Al-Haydos restored Qatar’s hopes before halftime, but Ermin Mahmić’s second-half goal secured all three points for Bosnia.

How did Switzerland secure first place in Group B?

Switzerland entered Matchday 3 knowing that a victory would guarantee the top spot, and the European side delivered a composed performance when it mattered most.

The result capped an impressive group-stage campaign for Switzerland, which finished unbeaten with seven points from three matches. Their balanced performances on both ends of the field made them one of the most consistent teams in the group.

What does the result mean for Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Despite the defeat, Canada advanced to the Round of 32 after finishing second in the group. Jesse Marsch’s side benefited from a superior goal difference, allowing them to edge Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final standings.

Bosnia’s victory over Qatar was not enough to move into the top two positions, but the team remained competitive until the final whistle of the group stage. Qatar, meanwhile, exited the tournament with just one point from three matches.

2026 World Cup Group B standings

The Venezuelan official will be accompanied on the sidelines by his fellow countrymen Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno as assistant referees, while Japan’s Yusuke Araki will serve as the fourth official.

With neither side managing to secure a victory in their opening matches, the tension is bound to be sky-high. In an environment where a single misstep can seal a team’s fate, the official’s signature approach will be tested to its limits.

Jesus Valenzuela’s refereeing record and style

Jesus Valenzuela is a Venezuelan FIFA international referee since 2013, widely recognized for his experience in CONMEBOL competitions and major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, Copa América and Libertadores.

He has officiated more than 80 international matches and has been consistently rated among the top referees in South America, including being named CONMEBOL’s best referee in 2021.

From a statistical and performance standpoint, he is known for a high-card but controlled refereeing profile, averaging close to 5 yellow cards per match across his career sample. His refereeing style is typically described as:

• Strict on tactical fouls and shirt pulling, especially in midfield transitions
• Quick to issue early yellow cards to set the tone of the match
• Strong reliance on game management rather than long advantage sequences
• Comfortable officiating high-intensity CONMEBOL-style matches, where emotional control is key
• Experience in high-pressure games (World Cup, Copa América, Libertadores knockout stages)

His profile fits referees who prioritize match control over flow, meaning he tends to intervene early if a game becomes physically or emotionally heated. That is one reason FIFA has trusted him in international knockout.

What happens if Bosnia or Qatar lose today?

A defeat for either Bosnia and Herzegovina or Qatar in their Group B World Cup match would have direct consequences on their path to the knockout stage: the losing team will be officially eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.

Given that Canada and Switzerland already sit atop the group with four points each, a loss locks the defeated side into the bottom of the standings, packing their bags before the knockout stage even begins.

A draw is equally catastrophic for both nations, as a single point apiece would leave them both stuck on two points. Therefore, this match at Seattle Stadium is a literal “win-or-go-home” scenario.

According to the latest FIFA rankings, Bosnia and Herzegovina are ranked No. 65 in the world with 1,381.18 points. Despite sitting below Qatar in the rankings, the Bosnians will look to use their experience against European opposition as they attempt to secure a crucial victory in Seattle.

Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Canada before suffering a 4-1 defeat to Switzerland on Matchday 2. The European side now finds itself under pressure heading into its final group-stage match, knowing that anything less than a positive result could end their World Cup campaign.

How does Bosnia and Herzegovina’s FIFA ranking compare to Qatar?

While Bosnia and Herzegovina enter the match ranked 65th in the FIFA standings, Qatar sit slightly higher at No. 56 with 1,438.82 points. The ranking gap highlights how closely matched the two nations are on paper despite their different soccer backgrounds.

Both teams have collected just one point through their first two matches. Bosnia earned their point in a draw against Canada, while Qatar salvaged a 1-1 result against Switzerland before suffering a heavy defeat to Canada on Matchday 2.

What is at stake for Bosnia and Herzegovina against Qatar?

A victory would give Bosnia and Herzegovina four points and keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage, either through a top-two finish or as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams. The same opportunity exists for Qatar, making this one of the most important matches in Group B.

The match will be held in Seattle, Washington, at Lumen Field, officially known during the tournament as Seattle Stadium. It is located near the city’s waterfront and home to some of the loudest crowds in American sports.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3 PM ET. Bosnia and Herzegovina are looking to keep alive their dream of advancing beyond the group stage, while Qatar are still chasing their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory.

What is Lumen Field’s capacity for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Lumen Field, known as Seattle Stadium during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has an official tournament capacity of 66,925 spectators. FIFA confirmed the final capacity figures for all 16 World Cup venues shortly before the start.

Located in downtown Seattle, Washington, the venue is home to the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and MLS side Seattle Sounders. Opened in 2002, the stadium has built a reputation as one of the loudest sporting venues in North America.

Seattle Stadium is hosting six World Cup matches overall, including four group-stage games, a Round of 32 matchup, and a Round of 16 fixture. Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar is one of the venue’s featured group-stage contests.

The capacity used for the World Cup differs slightly from the stadium’s regular configuration. While Lumen Field can typically accommodate around 68,000 to 69,000 fans and soccer events, FIFA’s tournament setup, media areas and operational requirements reduce the final attendance figure to 66,925 seats.

What will the weather be like for Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar?

The weather is expected to be warm and favorable, with temperatures around 84-85°F (29-30°C) at kickoff and virtually no chance of rain in Seattle. Forecasts call for mostly sunny skies, light winds and dry conditions.

The Group B clash will kick off at 12:00 p.m. local time (3:00 p.m. ET) at Lumen Field, officially known as Seattle Stadium during the tournament. Temperatures are expected to climb through the afternoon, reaching close to 85°F (30°C).

Rain is not expected to be a factor. Forecast models project almost no precipitation risk during the match window, while winds should remain light, generally below 10 mph. Those conditions should allow for a fast-paced game.

While temperatures will be higher than normal for Seattle, they remain below the levels that have forced frequent cooling breaks at some other venues. Climate analysts have identified Seattle as one of the least heat-affected host cities.

As a result, Qatar arrive at their decisive clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina needing a result to keep the World Cup dream alive. What looked like a promising start, suddenly became an uphill battle.

The Maroons are still mathematically alive, but they have to deliver in Seattle to make history in the tournament. Here is what each possible outcome would mean for Qatar.

What happens if Qatar win vs Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2026 World Cup?

If Qatar get a win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, they would finish the group stage with four points. That total would likely be enough to secure a place in the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s eight best third-place teams.

While qualification would not be mathematically guaranteed in every scenario, four points has consistently been viewed as a strong benchmark under the expanded World Cup format.

The victory would also make history. It would be Qatar’s first-ever win in a FIFA World Cup match, a major milestone for a nation trying to build important reputation on the international stage.

What happens if Qatar tie with Bosnia and Herzegovina?

A tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina would leave Qatar with only two points. Under that scenario, the Maroons would finish at the bottom of Group B and would not have any realistic path to the Round of 32.

Bosnia and Herzegovina would also finish on two points, but the Europeans would claim third place thanks to a superior goal difference across all group matches. As a result, Qatar would be eliminated from the tournament.

2026 World Cup: What happens if Qatar lose today against Bosnia and Herzegovina?

A loss with Bosnia and Herzegovina would officially eliminate Qatar from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Maroons would finish the tournament with just one point from three matches, ending any possibility of reaching the knockout rounds.

It would also mean that Qatar failed to advance beyond the group stage in both of their World Cup appearances. However, there is still one positive note. Qatar’s 2026 campaign would remain their best World Cup performance to date.

During the 2022 World Cup, as hosts, Qatar finished with zero points after losing to Ecuador, Senegal, and the Netherlands. Even though elimination would be disappointing, the point earned against Switzerland ensured that the 2026 team surpassed the country’s previous World Cup record.

2026 World Cup Group B standings

The Asian side has endured a difficult campaign so far, opening the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Switzerland before suffering a heavy 6-0 defeat to Canada. As a result, Julen Lopetegui’s team finds itself under pressure heading into a decisive showdown with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Beyond the qualification race, Qatar is also fighting to improve its position in the FIFA World Ranking. A victory over the European squad could translate into a huge jump in the list.

What is Qatar’s FIFA ranking?

Qatar is currently ranked 56th in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,438.82 points. Interestingly, the 2026 World Cup has not changed Qatar’s position in the rankings despite several other nations moving up or down during the tournament. However, that does not mean Qatar’s rating has remained unchanged.

How has Qatar’s FIFA rating changed during the World Cup?

Although Qatar remains 56th in the rankings, its total number of FIFA points has fluctuated throughout the tournament. The Maroons gained 9.14 ranking points after their impressive 1-1 draw against Switzerland in the opening match of Group B.

However, those gains were quickly erased by the devastating 6-0 defeat against Canada. That result cost Qatar 20.63 FIFA ranking points, leaving the team with a net loss through its first two World Cup matches.

Can Qatar improve its FIFA ranking against Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes. A victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina would not only keep Qatar’s qualification hopes alive but would also add valuable points to its FIFA ranking total.

Because World Cup matches carry significant weight in the ranking formula, a positive result could help Qatar recover some of the points lost following the defeat to Canada. With qualification and ranking points both on the line, the stakes could hardly be higher for Lopetegui’s squad.

Why is the Bosnia match so important for Qatar?

Qatar needs a win to maintain realistic hopes of advancing to the Round of 32. Anything less would likely end the team’s World Cup campaign, while a victory would keep the door open to qualification through one of the tournament’s third-place spots.

At the same time, three points would provide a welcome boost to Qatar’s FIFA ranking and help restore momentum after one of the heaviest defeats of the tournament. For Qatar, the final Group B match represents one last opportunity to change the story of its 2026 World Cup.

How to watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar in the USA

Fans across the United States can watch this highly anticipated contest live on FS1 and Telemundo through traditional TV coverage.

Streaming options include Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock Premium. Be sure to tune in for this thrilling clash.

Can I watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar for free?

Viewers in the United States can watch this marquee matchup live on Fubo and DirecTV Stream. New users may qualify for a free five-day trial.

Each service offers live coverage across the country, giving viewers access to every major play and pivotal moment as it unfolds.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Everything will be on the line when Bosnia and Qatar meet in a must-win Group Stage clash. Both teams are looking to bounce back from heavy defeats, with Bosnia losing 4-1 to Switzerland and Qatar falling 6-0 to Canada.

A win is crucial for either side to reach four points and remain in contention for a place among the tournament’s best third-place finishers, making this a high-pressure showdown with plenty at stake.

Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar: Predicted Lineups

Bosnia and Herzegovina (4-4-2): Nikola Vasilj; Amar Dedić, Nikola Katić, Tarik Muharemovic, Sead Kolašinac; A. Memić, Benjamin Tahirovic, Ivan Šunjić, Kerim Alajbegovic; Ermedin Demirović, Edin Džeko.

Qatar (4-4-2): Mahmud Abunada; Ayoub Al Oui, P. Miguel Correia, Boualem Khoukhi, Homam Ahmed; Jassem Abdulsallam, Assim Madibo, Gueye Laye, Edmilson Junior; Y. Abdel Razaq Youssef, Akram Afif.

What time is the Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar match?

The match kicks off today, June 24, at 3:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
Central Time: 2:00 PM
Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
Pacific Time: 12:00 PM

While Bosnia and Herzegovina remain mathematically alive, their advancement fate now hinges on outside help. With Group B rivals Canada and Qatar set to square off in Round 2, here are the two distinct scenarios facing Bosnia heading into Round 3:

• If Bosnia beat Qatar: They will finish the group stage with 4 points. Depending on the final matchday result between Switzerland and Canada, a 4-point total gives Bosnia a strong mathematical chance to finish either as the Group B runner-up or secure one of the coveted slots awarded to the tournament’s best third-place teams.
• If Bosnia draw or lose vs. Qatar: They will finish the group stage with just 1 or 2 points, resulting in automatic elimination from the tournament.

Group B standings

With Canada and Qatar set to square off next, the Group B landscape is shifting quickly. Switzerland currently control the top spot, leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina closely watching the outcome of the upcoming match as they look to keep their knockout stage aspirations alive.

Switzerland on the verge of the knockout stage

Following their crucial victory over Bosnia, Switzerland have one foot in the next round. The win gives them a head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over Bosnia, and their healthy goal differential positions them favorably to qualify as at least one of the best third-place teams.

Their definitive placement will also depend on the outcome of the upcoming Canada-Qatar clash. A draw in that match would officially secure Switzerland’s spot in the Round of 32.

For now, tension mounts in Group B, as Bosnia and Herzegovina face an uphill battle after letting a crucial point slip away against the clinical Swiss. They will finish against Qatar their participation in the Group Stage, expecting to have a positive results.

Bosnia left reel after devastating defeat

Following a crushing 4-1 loss to Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stage are hanging by a thread. The heavy defeat severely damages their goal differential, leaving them at a massive disadvantage when compared against the other third-place teams fighting for a spot in the Round of 32.

That’s why more than half of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s roster features players who were born outside the country. Their birthplaces range from neighboring Balkan nations to countries such as Germany, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, and even the United States.

Despite being born abroad, all of these players have chosen to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina in the tournament as the nation competes in Group B alongside Switzerland, Canada, and Qatar.

How many Bosnia and Herzegovina players were born abroad?

Bosnia and Herzegovina has 17 foreign-born players in its 2026 World Cup squad. The largest foreign-born contingent comes from Germany and Sweden, two countries that became home to many Bosnian families during and after the conflicts of the 1990s.

2026 World Cup: Which Bosnia and Herzegovina players were born abroad?

Several members of the squad were born in Sweden, including defender Dennis Hadzikadunic and midfielders Benjamin Tahirovic and Armin Gigovic. Sweden has become one of the most important sources of talent for the Bosnian national team in recent years.

Germany is represented by some of the squad’s most recognizable names. Sead Kolasinac, Dzenis Burnic, Ermedin Demirovic, and Kerim-Sam Alajbegovic were all born there before choosing to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina internationally.

Austria-born players Amar Dedic and Ermin Mahmic are also part of the roster. Dedic, in particular, has emerged as one of the country’s most promising young players and is expected to play a significant role at the tournament.

The squad also includes Tarik Muharemovic and Arjan Malic, who were born in Slovenia. Midfielder Amir Hadziahmetovic was born in Denmark, while Ivan Basic was born in Croatia. Elsewhere, Samed Bazdar and Jovo Lukic were born in Serbia, while Haris Tabakovic was born in Switzerland.

One of the most unique stories belongs to Esmir Bajraktarevic, who was born in the United States before opting to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina. His inclusion demonstrates the increasingly global nature of the national team.

Which players were born in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The remaining members of the squad were born in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Nikola Vasilj, Mladen Jurkas, Martin Zlomislic, Nihad Mujakic, Nikola Katic, Stjepan Radeljic, Ivan Sunjic, Amar Memic and striker Edin Dzeko.

Why does Bosnia and Herzegovina have so many foreign-born players?

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s large diaspora is the primary reason behind the number of foreign-born players in the squad. Many Bosnian families relocated throughout Europe during the 1990s, creating communities in countries such as Germany, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, and Denmark.

Their children often developed in the academies of those nations while remaining eligible to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina through their family heritage. The result is a diverse and talented national team that combines players developed across Europe with those born and raised in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Swiss enter the contest looking for their first victory after surrendering a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Qatar, while Bosnia and Herzegovina also opened the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Canada.

FIFA has appointed an experienced officiating crew for the match. Portuguese referee João Pinheiro will serve as the center official, assisted by Bruno Jesus and Luciano Maia. Yusuke Araki of Japan has been named fourth official, while Jun Mihara will act as reserve assistant referee. The VAR team will be led by Dennis Higler of the Netherlands, alongside Tomasz Kwiatkowski of Poland and Fu Ming of China.

Despite the disappointment of dropping points in stoppage time, Switzerland remain one of the favorites to advance from the group. Murat Yakin’s side has built a reputation for consistency on the international stage, having suffered just two defeats in its last 17 group-stage matches at major tournaments while regularly reaching the knockout rounds.

Which uniforms will Switzerland and Bosnia and Herzegovina wear?

According to FIFA’s official match uniform assignment, Switzerland will wear their traditional red home kit featuring red shirts, red shorts, and red socks. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel is expected to wear a light blue uniform.

Bosnia and Herzegovina will take the field in white shirts, white shorts, and white socks, while their goalkeeper is scheduled to wear a yellow kit.

The referee crew will wear an all-black uniform, while ball kids assigned to the match will be dressed in dark gray. Switzerland and Bosnia and Herzegovina will become easily distinguishable on the field thanks to the strong contrast between the two kits.