Do not miss a single moment of the World Cup action.

USMNT player ratings vs Bosnia and Herzegovina: Malik Tillman rescues the Americans, who survive a controversial red card for Folarin Balogun to earn a place in the World Cup Round of 16.

Wednesday’s Round of 32 clash offered a challenge the U.S. Men’s National Team would have preferred to avoid, but they did what was required to escape the Bay Area and remain in contention.

SANTA CLARA, California — The U.S. Men's National Team were desperate for a moment to breathe. Instead, they received a standing ovation. Down to ten men, holding a narrow lead, and clinging to their World Cup hopes, Malik Tillman rose to the occasion, giving an entire nation reason to exhale and rejoice simultaneously.

Tillman’s sublime free kick sealed a memorable 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, marking the USMNT’s first knockout-stage victory in 24 years. The result did not come easily, as the ten-man American side, accustomed to dominating the early weeks of the World Cup, were forced to dig deep to survive.

After taking the lead through a Folarin Balogun strike, the USMNT appeared on course for a comfortable evening. However, the tide turned abruptly when Balogun was shown a straight red card in the 64th minute following a VAR review. The decision was highly contentious, as the striker was dismissed for a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic that appeared accidental. From that moment, the Americans had to display resilience — and they did exactly that. Ultimately, they found a way to prevail.

The decisive moment came from Tillman’s boot, as he curled a magnificent free kick into the net just 18 minutes after the dismissal. The celebrations in Santa Clara were euphoric, with USMNT supporters and players alike releasing cheers that carried both joy and relief.

Now, attention shifts to the next challenge. The mission in Santa Clara is complete, albeit with considerable frustration. Losing Balogun for the upcoming match against Belgium will be a setback, but that concern can wait. From the instant the forward was sent off, the priority was survival — and through 30 of the most disciplined minutes of this World Cup campaign, the USMNT achieved exactly that.

Here are GOAL’s player ratings for the USMNT from the Santa Clara encounter:

Goalkeeper & Defence

Matt Freese (7/10):

Called into action multiple times during the first half, including dealing with an attempted Olimpico. Stayed composed when needed, successfully making all three required saves.

Antonee Robinson (7/10):

Had one nervy moment early on but avoided any real trouble. Offered some attacking threat down the left flank, though most of the U.S. play flowed through the right side.

Tim Ream (8/10):

Extremely composed, helping the USMNT navigate several tricky moments early on before showing remarkable calmness in the second half. A veteran performance marked by leadership and poise.

Chris Richards (8/10):

Much like Ream, Richards was immense, particularly in aerial duels against a physically imposing Bosnian side. It was a difficult contest, but he emerged victorious.

Alex Freeman (7/10):

Frequently involved in possession and generally made smart decisions with the ball. Showed commendable composure for the youngest player in the USMNT lineup.

Midfield

Tyler Adams (7/10):

Played a key role in setting up Balogun’s opener with a clever flick. Added that offensive contribution to his usual tireless defensive work.

Weston McKennie (7/10):

Full of energy and industry, as always. Another solid display from one of the team’s most consistent performers this summer.

Malik Tillman (9/10):

Although not officially credited with the assist due to a deflection in the buildup, Tillman delivered the pass that initiated Balogun’s goal. Later, he produced a stunning free kick to seal the victory. An outstanding all-round performance from a player finally earning the recognition he deserves.

Attack

Christian Pulisic (6/10):

Drove forward with intent but struggled to find end product. Became isolated after Balogun’s dismissal. Unlucky to see a goal ruled out for offside.

Sergiño Dest (6/10):

Linked up effectively with McKennie on the right flank but lacked sharpness in the final third compared to earlier performances, particularly against Australia.

Folarin Balogun (7/10):

Delivered an excellent display until his night was spoiled by a harsh red card. A disappointing end for a player who looked capable of adding more goals.

Substitutes & Manager

Sebastian Berhalter (6/10):

A logical substitution given the circumstances. Provided the energy and effort required to see out the match.

Ricardo Pepi (7/10):

Understood his responsibility perfectly — to hold up play and relieve pressure. Executed it effectively.

Gio Reyna (N/A):

Introduced in stoppage time and had minimal involvement.

Mauricio Pochettino (8/10):

The tactical approach was spot-on, even after Balogun’s red card. Maintained composure, placed faith in his players, and allowed them to problem-solve — the right decision that paid off.