Tyler Adams Instrumental As The USA Progress To The Round Of 16

The United States booked their place in the World Cup round of 16 with a battling 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, as Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams once again played a key role for Mauricio Pochettino's side. Adams was rested in America's final group game so was fresh and ready to perform just when the co hosts needed him.

The Cherries enforcer produced another disciplined display in midfield, helping the USA control proceedings before goals from Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman secured progression to the round of 16. Tyler completed the full 90 minutes, despite having to take a momentary break following a nasty collision with Bosnian veteran Edi Dzeko. He provided the energy, defensive awareness and leadership that have become hallmarks of the Americans' campaign. After Balogun opened the scoring for the co hosts he then saw red just after the hour mark, making the next twenty minutes or so a real slog, just how Adams likes it. Tilman's 82nd minute goal calmed proceedings down, but prior to that it was a real battle for USA and one in which Adams unsurprisingly relished in.

Adams impressed in the Americans first couple of games and the 27 year old continued to underline his importance for Pochettino's men in this one. Adams' performances will be another encouraging sign for Cherries fans ahead of the new Premier League season, the central midfielder has rediscovered his rhythm quickly following injuries in the last campaign.

Credit: Yahoo Sports.

The Americans will now play Belgium in the World Cup round of 16, with a place in the quarter finals on the line. 

Belgium reached the last 16 after edging past Senegal 3-2 following extra time in a dramatic encounter, but they were pushed all the way and their performance showed they should not be feared by the co hosts. As always, much will depend on Adams' ability to control the midfield battle. The much loved Cherries man will have a big challenge in the heart of the pitch, coming up against Belgium's experienced midfield pairing of Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans in particular. While De Bruyne remains one of the world's most creative players, Tielemans dictates the tempo and links defence with attack, making them a formidable combination if allowed time and space. Stopping that partnership will be crucial if the Americans are to progress and Tyler's reading of the game, pressing intensity and willingness to cover ground could disrupt Belgium's rhythm and prevent players like De Bruyne from influencing the contest in dangerous areas.

Just as importantly, Adams' composure in possession can help launch quick transitions, an area in which the USA have looked increasingly dangerous during the tournament so far. The Americans pace in attacking areas and with growing belief throughout the squad, Pochettino's side definitely possess the tools to trouble Belgium. If Adams can win his battles in midfield, the USA will fancy their chances of causing somewhat of an upset. Belgium undoubtedly boast greater pedigree on paper, but recent performances suggest the gap between the two sides is far smaller than reputation alone would indicate, setting the stage for a fascinating contest, and one which is very hard to call.