The defeat didn’t change the classification, but it hurt. The United States team had already guaranteed the leadership of Group D and a place in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup. Turkey, eliminated, played only for pride. Still, the 3-2 loss in stoppage time, in the 98th minute, in Los Angeles, was not the ideal outcome before the round of 16 against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
After convincing victories over Paraguay and Australia, the USA was experiencing its best moment in decades of World Cups. The defeat to the Turks, who had not yet scored in the tournament, cut the momentum sharply. It was the first time since 1950 that the Americans lost after opening the scoring.
The road ahead passes through European teams, historically difficult terrain. Since 1990, the USA has faced continental teams 21 times and won just once. In the round of 16, Bosnia promises to be tough. Depending on the results, Belgium or Spain could appear next.
The game in Los Angeles
Auston Trusty opened the scoring in the 3rd minute. Arda Güler equalized soon after and Baris Yilmaz scored in the first half. Sebastian Berhalter equalized at the start of the second. With Christian Pulisic coming on later in the match, the USA pressed, but a defensive error allowed Kaan Ayhan to score in stoppage time.
Rotation and lessons for the knockout stage
Mauricio Pochettino changed nine starters. Even so, the team fought, but Turkey showed quality and determination. The result serves as a warning: in the knockout stage there will be no room for error. Despite being more talented, the team has not yet faced the great powers.
Reaching the quarterfinals would be a big step forward — repeating 2002, the best recent campaign. The defeat exposed defensive weaknesses and the need for consistency against stronger opponents. The test begins in the next phase.