USMNT Falls to Turkey in Last Moments of World Cup Group Stage Clash

The United States Men's National Team almost secured a positive result in their final Group D match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Turkey on Thursday night at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Despite a strong effort from a rotated squad led by Sebastian Berhalter, a last-second goal by Kaan Ayhan handed Turkey a 3-2 victory, spoiling what could have been a morale-boosting finish.

With the US already confirmed as group winners after earlier matches, and Turkey eliminated following two defeats, the game lacked competitive stakes. Still, the Turkish side celebrated their win intensely, eager to return home with some pride.

Match Summary and Key Moments

Sebastian Berhalter made history as the first modern-era US player to both score and assist in a single World Cup match. He set up Auston Trusty for an early third-minute opener before scoring himself shortly after halftime. However, defensive lapses allowed Turkey to turn the game around with goals from Arda Guler and Orkun Kokcu inside the opening half hour.

Turkey, despite leading the tournament with 62 shots through their first two games, managed just eight attempts this time. The US showed promise, especially after Christian Pulisic entered the game in the second half, energizing the attack and shifting momentum.

Near the end, an ankle injury to Trusty left the US playing short-handed during crucial moments. The defense couldn’t clear the ball in a frantic penalty area scramble, allowing Ayhan to score the winner in stoppage time, dashing US hopes of avoiding defeat.

Lineups and Tactical Notes

• 3rd minute: Trusty scores off a corner delivered by Berhalter, giving the US a quick lead.
• 10th minute: Turkey equalizes through Arda Guler after capitalizing on defensive errors.
• 31st minute: Orkun Kokcu puts Turkey ahead following a slick team move.
• 48th minute: Berhalter blasts a long-range shot to level the score for the US again.
• 58th minute: Pulisic enters and immediately makes an impact; US pressure intensifies.
• 90+8 minutes: Kaan Ayhan scores the winning goal for Turkey in stoppage time.

Player Highlights and Injuries

Christian Pulisic returned from injury to provide energy off the bench, nearly giving the US the lead with a powerful shot that narrowly missed. Auston Trusty not only scored early but later suffered an ankle injury that forced the US to finish the game with ten men.

What's Next for the USMNT?

Despite the loss, the US advances to the knockout stage to face Bosnia & Herzegovina. Coach Mauricio Pochettino experimented heavily with his lineup in this final group match, setting records for most different starters and players used by the US in a single World Cup. This approach may prove beneficial as they prepare for the challenges ahead.