The United States men's national soccer team advanced to the World Cup round of 16 after defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 on Wednesday night at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Folarin Balogun scored in the first half to put the Americans ahead before receiving a red card in the 64th minute for a foul against Tarik Muharemovic.
>>> US Men's National Team Beats Bosnia 2-0, Advances to World Cup Round of 16
Despite playing down a man, Malik Tillman secured the victory for the 10-man squad with an 82nd-minute free kick that deflected off goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj.
The victory marks only the second time the United States has won a World Cup knockout round match since the tournament expanded, following their 2002 round of 16 victory against Mexico.
The win sets up a round of 16 matchup against Belgium on Monday in Seattle.
Prior to the match, thousands of fans lined up outside the venue, which is known as San Francisco Bay Area Stadium for the tournament, including many travelers from Southern California.
"Oh man, it's a huge deal. I've been waiting for this and I couldn't sleep last night," said Alex Ruiz, a Northridge native.
Supporters expressed excitement over the rare opportunity to witness the national team compete in elimination matches hosted on domestic soil.
"This is incredible. How many opportunities we have in our lifetime to come to matches here in the U.
S. so we had to bring the kids," said Abi Ireland, a Beaumont resident.
