# US Suffers 3-2 Defeat to Turkey in Thrilling Last-Gasp World Cup Match

*A heavily changed United States team lost 3-2 to Turkey in a dramatic World Cup group stage match.*

June 26, 2026 · Sports

## At a glance

- US lost 3-2 to Turkey in a World Cup group stage match.
- Auston Trusty scored the fastest US goal in the match.
- Kaan Ayhan scored the winning goal in stoppage time.

A heavily changed United States team suffered a 3-2 defeat to Turkey in an action-packed World Cup group stage match. Despite already being crowned Group D winners, the US aimed to maintain their perfect start with a third win. However, Turkey, already eliminated, sought to restore some pride. The US took an early lead but fell to a last-gasp goal by Kaan Ayhan deep in stoppage time.

## Early US Lead and Turkey's Response

The US got off to a dream start with backup center-half Auston Trusty scoring an early goal, his first international goal and the second-fastest by the US at a World Cup. However, Turkey responded with Arda Guler equalizing in the 10th minute. The game saw further drama as Turkey's bench rushed the field to protest a foul, and the US had a goal ruled offside.

## Second Half Comeback and Late Heartbreak

Trailing in the 31st minute, the US rallied in the second half with Sebastian Berhalter scoring to level the match. The introduction of Christian Pulisic, returning from injury, added excitement but couldn't prevent Turkey from scoring a late winner. Kaan Ayhan's stoppage-time goal secured a 3-2 victory for Turkey.

## Pochettino's Perspective

US coach Mauricio Pochettino, who made nine changes to his lineup, emphasized that the loss would not derail their momentum. He highlighted the need to balance priorities ahead of the next match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Pochettino questioned the significance of winning all group matches if it meant losing in the next round.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/sports/us-loses-3-2-to-turkey-in-world-cup-clash