Turkey face elimination against a rampant USA side in a must-win World Cup Group D encounter, with Gregg Berhalter's men already through to the last 16.
Summary
Turkey's World Cup dream hangs by a thread as they prepare to face a rampant United States side in a do-or-die Group D encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With two defeats from two matches, the Crescent-Stars are rooted to the bottom of the group with zero points and a goal difference of -3, needing a victory to have any chance of progressing to the knockout stages. In stark contrast, the United States have been imperious, winning both their opening games to sit top of the group with six points and a +5 goal difference, already assured of a place in the last 16 but eager to finish first.
The match kicks off at 02:00 UTC on June 26, 2026, at a venue yet to be confirmed. For Turkey, this is not just a game; it is a battle for survival. A loss would confirm their elimination, while even a win might not be enough depending on other results. The USA, meanwhile, will be looking to maintain their momentum and secure top spot with a third consecutive victory.
Team News & Form
Turkey's recent form makes for grim reading. They opened their campaign with a narrow 0-1 defeat to Paraguay, a result that was followed by a more comprehensive 0-2 loss to Australia. In both matches, the Turkish attack failed to fire, managing zero goals from two games. Defensively, they have been porous, conceding three goals in total. Manager Vincenzo Montella has a selection headache, with key midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu struggling with a minor knock, though he is expected to start. The backline, likely featuring Merih Demiral and Çağlar Söyüncü, must improve drastically to contain the USA's potent attack.
The United States, under Gregg Berhalter, have been a revelation. They dispatched Australia 2-0 in their opener before thrashing Paraguay 4-1 in a statement performance. The team is brimming with confidence, with Christian Pulisic pulling the strings from the left and Folarin Balogun leading the line with two goals already. Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah provide energy in midfield, while the defence, marshalled by Tim Ream and Chris Richards, has conceded just once. Berhalter has no major injury concerns and is likely to field a strong XI, possibly rotating a few players given qualification is already secured.
Key Players
For Turkey, all eyes will be on Hakan Çalhanoğlu. The Inter Milan playmaker is the creative heartbeat of his side, capable of unlocking defences with his passing and set-piece delivery. However, he has been quiet in the tournament so far and needs to step up. Up front, Kerem Aktürkoğlu offers pace and trickery but has lacked a finishing touch. The return of Enes Ünal from injury could provide a focal point, though he is likely to start on the bench.
For the USA, Christian Pulisic remains the talisman. The AC Milan winger has been in scintillating form, scoring twice and assisting once in the group stage. His dribbling and ability to cut inside from the left will trouble Turkey's right-back. Folarin Balogun has been a revelation up front, using his strength and movement to great effect. Midfield dynamo Weston McKennie provides box-to-box energy and a goal threat from deep, while Antonee Robinson offers width and delivery from left-back.
Predicted Lineups
Turkey (4-2-3-1): Günok; Celik, Demiral, Söyüncü, Erkin; Çalhanoğlu, Özcan; Aktürkoğlu, Yazıcı, Yılmaz; Ünal (or Dervişoğlu).
United States (4-3-3): Turner; Dest, Richards, Ream, Robinson; Musah, Adams, McKennie; Weah, Balogun, Pulisic.
Key Battles
The midfield duel will be crucial. Turkey's Çalhanoğlu versus USA's Adams – the Leeds United midfielder's energy and pressing could stifle the Turkish playmaker. Out wide, Antonee Robinson's overlapping runs against Zeki Celik could be a key source of chances. At the back, Turkey's centre-backs must track Balogun's movement, while USA's Chris Richards will need to keep tabs on Aktürkoğlu.
Head-to-Head
These two nations have met only once before in a competitive fixture, a 2014 friendly that ended 2-1 to the USA. However, that result holds little relevance given the vastly different squads and stakes. Turkey have historically struggled against CONCACAF opposition in World Cups, while the USA have a decent record against European sides under Berhalter.
Score Prediction
Turkey's desperation could make them dangerous, but the USA's quality and confidence should prove too much. Expect the Americans to control possession and create more clear-cut chances. Turkey may finally score, but their defensive frailties will likely be exposed again. Prediction: Turkey 1-3 United States.
Where to Watch
Broadcast details are yet to be confirmed, but the match will likely be shown on Fox Sports (USA) and TRT Spor (Turkey). Fans can also follow live updates on the FIFA website and via social media channels. For more on the group, check the Group D standings and full fixture list. Learn more about the Turkey squad and the United States team.
