World Cup: US Lose 3-2 to Turkey After Last-Gasp Strike

The United States suffered a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Turkey in their final Group D match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after conceding a stoppage-time winner, although the result did not affect their qualification for the Round of 32.

Having already secured top spot in the group with victories over Paraguay and Australia, United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino made nine changes to his starting lineup, prioritising squad rotation ahead of the knockout stages.

The Americans made a dream start, taking the lead in the third minute when defender Auston Trusty rose unmarked at the far post to head home from a corner. The goal, his first for the national team, became the second-fastest World Cup goal ever scored by the United States.

Turkey, who had already been eliminated after defeats to Paraguay and Australia, responded positively. Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler equalised in the 10th minute after finishing a well-worked move involving Baris Alper Yilmaz.

The encounter remained lively, with both teams creating opportunities. The United States believed they had regained the lead through Mark McKenzie, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Turkey completed the turnaround in the 31st minute when Eren Elmali delivered a low cross that Yilmaz calmly converted to give his side a 2-1 advantage before halftime.

The Americans responded quickly after the restart. In the 49th minute, Sebastian Berhalter struck a powerful low effort into the bottom corner after Turkey failed to properly clear a long throw, bringing the score to 2-2.

Pochettino introduced captain Christian Pulisic just before the hour mark as the United States searched for a winning goal. The AC Milan winger immediately made an impact, forcing several defensive blocks and striking the post during an impressive cameo.

With the match appearing destined to end level, Turkey snatched victory deep into stoppage time. Defender Kaan Ayhan reacted quickest inside the penalty area to fire home from close range, securing Turkey’s first and only victory of the tournament.

Despite the defeat, the United States finished as Group D winners and will now face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Round of 32. Pochettino insisted the result would not affect his team’s confidence, stressing that preserving key players for the knockout stage remained his priority as the tournament enters its decisive phase.