Bosnian fans gather ahead of Team USA match in Bay Area: 'It's very emotional'

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KGO) -- With less than 24 hours until the USA vs. Bosnia match, European fans are descending on the Bay Area as they prepare for the knockout round.

In Santa Clara, thousands of Bosnians are ready to cheer on their national team, many gathering at Euro Grill ahead of Wednesday's game.

We found many Bosnians at Euro Grill. At the restaurant, fans shared food and stories of long journeys to follow their team.

"This is a traditional Bosnian food. Its ground meat with a special bread," said Sabhudin Smahilahodzic and added, "I just came from St. Louis. I have been following the team all the way from Canada to here. So, we are hoping for the best."

The last time Bosnia appeared in the World Cup was in 2014 in Brazil. For many supporters, traveling across the U.S. to follow the team has been a special experience leading up to Wednesday's match.

"I have been to the last 7 out of 8 games. This all started back in November. Me and my friend we both grew up in Vermont and our dream was always to see the national team play important games," Sead Dobraca said.

Fans have traveled from across the country to attend, including from San Diego and New York. One fan paid nearly $4,000 for a ticket to the game.

"This is our community. Once you have something special going on it doesn't matter no amount of money could," said Elvis Sujak.

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For many Bosnians, the matchup against the United States carries emotional significance beyond soccer.

"What does it mean to you that the USA is playing your country Bosnia at home in the Bay Area?" Luz Pena asked Aida Sibic.

"It's very emotional. It's basically the country that took us in from genocide, from aggression with open arms. Gave us opportunity, gave us freedom to be who I am and build a life for my family," Sibic said.

According to the 2023 census, there are more than 100,000 Bosnians in the United States. Many fans are preparing to support their team, seeing themselves reflected in the players and their journey.

"What would you want people to know about Bosnia?" Pena asked Dobraca.

"I want people to know how passionate our people are, how caring our people are. How nice our people are and how welcoming everyone is, and you are going to see that passion in the stands," he said.

"We are rooting for Bosnia but it's like homeland versus motherland," Sibic added.

The match Wednesday is expected to draw strong support from both sides, as fans gather in the Bay Area for a moment that blends sport, identity and community.