Raphael Claus to referee USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina at World Cup Round of 32

Raphael Claus will referee the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match between USA and Bosnia-Herzegovina at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, with kick-off set for 5pm PT / 8pm ET.

The 46-year-old Brazilian, who has been on the FIFA list since 2015, is regarded as one of South America’s leading officials. Claus is best known internationally for taking charge of the 2024 Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia, and has a long track record in the Copa Libertadores, including a high-profile semi-final between River Plate and Boca Juniors.

This will be Claus’ second assignment at the 2026 tournament, having already overseen Spain’s 4-0 group-stage victory over Saudi Arabia. He also refereed two matches at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar: England’s 6-2 win over Iran — a game that included a contentious late penalty — and Morocco’s 2-1 victory over Canada.

Claus will be assisted by fellow Brazilians Danilo Manis and Rodrigo Figueiredo on the lines, while Argentina’s Dario Herrera serves as fourth official. VAR duties fall to Venezuelan Juan Soto, with Colombian Nicolas Gallo operating as assistant VAR.

USA arrive in the knockout rounds having won their opening two group games against Paraguay and Australia. A late defeat to Turkey in their final group fixture was not enough to dislodge them from top spot. Bosnia-Herzegovina qualified in third place from their group after beating Qatar 3-1, losing 4-1 to Switzerland, and drawing 1-1 with Canada.