HT - USA 1, Bosnia-Herzegovina 0

It's been another dominant first half for the United States. Despite initially struggling to find openings, their persistence and directness broke down a compact defense with eight players behind the ball. They have been quick with their passing. They have been switching the field effectively to create a variety of attacking outlets to put relentless pressure on Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Folarin Balogun found himself in the center of several major moments. He cleverly dribbled past Benfica's Amar Dedic before being taken down in the box. The officiating crew decided it wasn't enough contact to be ruled a penalty. Two minutes later, it appeared he scored after tremendous high pressing from Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie forced a turnover in a dangerous area. Balogun was just offside after McKennie connected with him to rule out the goal.
The star striker wouldn't be denied after being the United States' biggest attacking threat. An adventurous ball from Tillman deflected off two Bosnian defenders. It fell kindly to Balogun, who calmly slotted it home in between goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj's legs. He nearly scored another first-half brace after his toe poke hit the crossbar following a terrific ball from Tyler Adams that was met perfectly by Sergino Dest. While they should be leading by multiple goals, Mauricio Pochettino's side should be confident against a limited opponent that isn't built to play from behind.












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