USMNT Falls to Turkey in Final Group Match of 2026 World Cup

The United States Men's National Team came close to securing a positive result in their last Group D match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite strong efforts from a rotated squad, a stoppage-time goal from Kaan Ayhan handed Turkey a 3-2 victory at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

This match had no bearing on the group standings as the U.S. had already clinched first place after earlier wins, while Turkey was eliminated following two losses. Still, the late win provided some consolation for the Turkish side as they prepare to return home.

Key Moments and Performances

Sebastian Berhalter stood out by becoming the first U.S. player in recent World Cup history to both score and assist in the same game. He set up Auston Trusty for an early goal in the third minute and later scored himself just after halftime with a powerful strike from outside the box.

Turkey capitalized on two defensive errors by the U.S., with goals from Arda Guler and Orkun Kokcu overturning the initial U.S. lead to put them ahead 2-1 before the break. Despite Turkey's elimination status, they pushed hard, although their offensive threat was limited compared to earlier tournament matches.

After missing the previous game due to injury, Christian Pulisic entered in the second half and immediately influenced play, nearly shifting momentum toward the U.S. The team suffered a setback when Auston Trusty sustained an ankle injury late in stoppage time, forcing the U.S. to finish the match a man down.

Final Moments and Impact

In the dying seconds, a chaotic scramble in the U.S. penalty area allowed Turkey to seize the ball. An attempted shot by Can Uzan was blocked but found Kaan Ayhan, who scored the winning goal and celebrated like it was a championship clincher.

This defeat stings despite the lack of stakes since the U.S. had already secured progression to the knockout stage. Their next opponent will be Bosnia & Herzegovina, confirmed to advance as well.

Timeline Highlights

• 3rd min: Auston Trusty scores after a corner, giving the U.S. an early lead.
• 10th min: Arda Guler equalizes for Turkey following a defensive lapse.
• 31st min: Orkun Kokcu puts Turkey ahead with a slick team goal.
• 48th min: Sebastian Berhalter blasts a long-range equalizer to level at 2-2.
• 58th min: Missed chance for the U.S. as Brenden Aaronson fails to convert an open net opportunity.
• 77th min: Christian Pulisic narrowly misses a shot that would have put the U.S. ahead.
• 90+8 min: Kaan Ayhan scores the winner for Turkey in the final moments.

Looking Ahead

The U.S. now advances to the knockout stage where they will face Bosnia & Herzegovina. Despite the late loss, the team's strong overall performance throughout the group stage offers hope for the next phase of the tournament.