Turkey snatch victory from the USA in a five-goal thriller
Turkey concluded their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a spirited 3-2 victory over co-hosts United States, thanks to a dramatic last-gasp winner from Kaan Ayhan. The match, played at the Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium) in Inglewood, California, was an end-to-end affair that ultimately saw Turkey finish with their first and only points of the tournament, despite already being eliminated from advancing.
How it unfolded: A topsy-turvy encounter
The United States, having already secured top spot in Group D, fielded a heavily rotated side, making nine changes from their previous fixture. This provided an opportunity for fringe players to impress, and they took it early on. Auston Trusty opened the scoring for the USA in the third minute, converting a corner from Sebastian Berhalter. However, Turkey, who had struggled to find the net in their previous matches, responded emphatically. Arda Güler equalised in the 10th minute, becoming Turkey's youngest ever World Cup goalscorer with a composed finish. The momentum shifted again in the 31st minute when Baris Yilmaz put Turkey ahead after a well-worked move involving Güler. The USA, however, showed their resilience. Just before halftime, Sebastian Berhalter levelled the score with a powerful strike from the edge of the box in the 49th minute, ensuring the teams went into the break level.
The turning point: Pulisic's return and Ayhan's late heroics
The second half saw a more determined performance from the United States, with the return of Christian Pulisic from injury in the 58th minute injecting energy into their attack. Pulisic even struck the post in the 63rd minute, a moment that could have seen the USA take the lead. However, as the match entered its final moments, it seemed destined for a draw. In the eighth minute of stoppage time (90+8'), Kaan Ayhan scrambled home the winning goal for Turkey, following a move initiated by Can Uzun, to secure a memorable victory for the eliminated side.
Tactical read: Rotation and resilience on display
The United States' tactical approach was clearly geared towards resting key players while maintaining a competitive edge. The numerous changes highlighted the squad depth, but also perhaps a slight lack of cohesion in the early stages. Turkey, playing with the freedom of a team with nothing to lose, displayed moments of individual brilliance and a commendable fighting spirit. Their ability to score from open play and set pieces, after struggling previously, was a positive takeaway for Vincenzo Montella's side. The late winner underscored Turkey's persistence, a trait that was perhaps missing in their earlier group stage matches.
Key performers
- Arda Güler (Turkey): The young star was instrumental, scoring Turkey's first goal of the tournament and being involved in the build-up to another. His performance marked him as a significant talent for the future.
- Sebastian Berhalter (USA): Contributed with an assist and a crucial equalising goal, showcasing his attacking threat from midfield.
- Kaan Ayhan (Turkey): The late substitute became the match-winner, scoring the decisive goal in dramatic fashion.
- Christian Pulisic (USA): His return from injury was a significant boost for the USMNT, and he looked sharp, even hitting the post.
By the Numbers
- Five goals were scored in a dramatic encounter, highlighting the open nature of the game.
- Kaan Ayhan's winner came in the 98th minute, the latest possible moment to snatch victory.
- Arda Güler became Turkey's youngest ever World Cup goalscorer.
- The USA's goal tally for the tournament reached eight, setting a new record for their World Cup campaigns.
What's next
Despite the defeat, the United States secured their position as Group D winners and will advance to the Round of 32, where they are set to face Bosnia and Herzegovina. This loss, while disappointing, serves as a valuable lesson for the USMNT as they enter the knockout stages. For Turkey, this victory provides a morale boost as they depart the tournament, offering a glimpse of their potential despite their early exit.
Kickoff XI is an independent publication and is not affiliated with FIFA.
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