USMNT Falls to Turkey in Final Group D Match at 2026 World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino’s rotated USMNT squad nearly secured a draw against Turkey in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D match on Thursday in Los Angeles. Sebastian Berhalter stood out, contributing both a goal and an assist for the Americans, but a stoppage-time strike by Kaan Ayhan gave Turkey a dramatic 3-2 win.

Both sides had little riding on this match. The United States had already clinched the group top spot after their first two matches, while Turkey entered the game eliminated after losing their first two games. Still, Turkey celebrated fiercely, holding onto a victory to show their fans back home despite their exit from the tournament.

USMNT’s Strong Effort Marred by Last-Minute Loss

Berhalter made history as the first American in modern World Cup play to score and assist in the same match. He set up Auston Trusty’s early goal in the third minute with a corner kick before netting the equalizer shortly after halftime.

Turkey capitalized on two defensive errors from the US to take the lead with goals from Arda Guler and Orkun Kokcu before halftime. Their performance lacked the spark they showed in earlier group stage games, managing just eight shots compared to 62 in previous matches.

Christian Pulisic returned from a calf injury to enter the match in the 58th minute, quickly energizing the US attack. Unfortunately, Auston Trusty sustained an ankle injury late in stoppage time, forcing the US to finish the match a man down. Shortly after, Turkey converted a chaotic scramble in the penalty area to grab the winning goal.

Match Details

• 3rd min: Auston Trusty scores off Berhalter's corner for a 1-0 US lead.
• 10th min: Turkey equalizes through Arda Guler following US defensive lapses.
• 31st min: Orkun Kokcu gives Turkey a 2-1 lead with a slick team goal.
• 48th min: Sebastian Berhalter blasts an equalizer for the US from outside the box.
• 58th min: Christian Pulisic enters, immediately impacting momentum.
• Injury to Trusty late in stoppage time leaves US a man down.
• Final moments: Kaan Ayhan nets the winner for Turkey in the dying seconds.

Aftermath and Next Steps

Despite the loss, the USMNT advances to the knockout round with confidence boosted by strong performances from their reserves. Their next match will be against Bosnia & Herzegovina, who qualified as a third-place team from another group.

The defeat stings given the missed chance to finish the group stage unbeaten, yet the overall display suggests depth and resilience as the tournament progresses.