INGLEWOOD — Turkey claimed their first victory of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating co-hosts USA 3-2 in a high-octane encounter at SoFi Stadium. While the result did not change the group standings with the USA already confirmed as winners and Turkey previously eliminated it provided a spectacular finish to the Group D campaign.
Goal Timeline: Turkey 3-2 USA 2026 - 98th Minute Winner
• 3’ Trusty 1-0 USA - first international goal
• Güler equalizes for Turkey
• Kökçü 45’ makes it 2-1 Turkey
• Berhalter 49’ 2-2 USA - first goal
• 98’ Ayhan 3-2 Turkey - last kick winner
A Goal-Filled Opening
The match exploded into action immediately, with Austin Trusty heading home his first international goal for the USA in just the third minute. Turkey responded swiftly, as Real Madrid’s Arda Güler leveled the score from close range shortly after. The tempo remained relentless throughout the first half, and Turkey took the lead just before the break through a clinical finish from Orkun Kökçü following an impressive team build-up.
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Second-Half Intensity
The co-hosts equalized four minutes into the second half when Sebastian Berhalter capitalized on a defensive clearance to score his maiden international goal. The USA dominated the second half, with Christian Pulisic forcing a series of outstanding saves from Turkish goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır, who was instrumental in keeping the match level.
Dramatic Late Winner
Just as the match appeared destined for a draw, Turkey delivered a stunning blow in the 98th minute. Kaan Ayhanbundled the ball home in the final seconds of play, securing a memorable win for the Turkish side and ending their tournament on a significant positive note.
Tournament Outlook
Despite the loss, Mauricio Pochettino’s USA team concludes the group stage on a record-breaking note, having scored eight goals the highest tally for a U.S. side in a single World Cup tournament. The USA now turns its focus to a highly anticipated Round of 32 showdown against Bosnia & Herzegovina, scheduled for July 2nd in California. Turkey departs the tournament with their heads held high after a spirited performance in their first World Cup appearance since 2002.
