Substitute Kaan Ayhan scored in stoppage time to secure Turkey's dramatic 3-2 victory over the USA in a dead-rubber World Cup 2026 group match on Tuesday. The win ended Turkey's winless streak in the tournament, while the USA had already qualified for the knockout rounds.
USA Field Weakened Side After Qualification
The USA made nine changes to their starting lineup, resting key players and omitting four who were on yellow cards. Auston Trusty gave the USA an early lead in the third minute, heading in from a corner. It was the third consecutive match in which the USA scored the opening goal.
Turkey equalised through Arda Guler in the 24th minute, but Sebastian Berhalter restored the USA's lead with a long-range effort just before halftime. Baris Yilmaz pulled Turkey level again in the 68th minute, setting up a tense finish.
Dramatic Finale and Incidents
The match featured a lively crowd, including celebrities, and several incidents. Trusty suffered a late hamstring injury and was substituted, while a heated exchange involving Christian Pulisic added to the drama. In the fourth minute of stoppage time, Ayhan pounced on a loose ball in the box to score the winner.
Turkey made seven changes themselves, but their persistence paid off. According to match officials, the victory was a morale booster for Turkey ahead of their final group game.
