USA end 24-year knockout drought with Bosnia victory

After 24 years of waiting, the United States finally tasted victory in a World Cup knockout match. The hosts beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 at the Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara to secure their place in the last 16, but the win came with added drama as they played a large part of the match with 10 men.

Despite dominating possession in the first half, the USA struggled to break down Bosnia's compact defence. Folarin Balogun had a goal ruled offside in the 31st minute before finally finding the net in the 45th minute, capitalising on a deflection to beat Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj. It was his third goal of the tournament.

However, the joy was short-lived. Early in the second half, Balogun was shown a straight red card after a VAR review for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic, reducing the USA to 10 men. He will also be suspended for the next match.

Bosnia also suffered a major blow when their captain and all-time top scorer, 40-year-old Edin Dzeko, was forced off due to injury early in the second half.

Despite being a man down, the USA defended resolutely and struck a decisive blow in the 82nd minute. Malik Tillman curled a brilliant free-kick over the Bosnian wall and past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.

The USA dominated possession throughout the match but were frustrated by Bosnia's low-block defence for long periods. Bosnia created a few chances early on, but USA goalkeeper Matt Freese made crucial saves.

This was the USA's first World Cup knockout win since 2002. They will now face Belgium in the last 16 on Monday, July 6, in Seattle, without the suspended Balogun.