Turkey beat USA 3-2 in a pulsating Group D clash, with Kaan Ayhan's 98th-minute winner keeping their World Cup hopes alive despite a valiant US fightback.
In a match that had everything — early goals, a redemptive subplot, and a stoppage-time winner — Turkey defeated the United States 3-2 in a breathless Group D encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The result keeps Turkey's faint knockout hopes flickering while the USA, already qualified, showed both their attacking flair and defensive fragility.
Summary
From the first whistle, the game was a whirlwind. USA defender Auston Trusty stunned the Turkish faithful with a third-minute opener, but Turkey responded through a brilliant Arda Güler strike and a Baris Alper Yilmaz header before half-time. Sebastian Berhalter, who had earlier been booked, levelled for the USA early in the second half, setting up a tense finale. With the match deep into stoppage time, Kaan Ayhan popped up to score the winner, sending the Turkish bench into delirium.
Key Moments
3' — USA strike early: Sebastian Berhalter's corner found Auston Trusty, who powered a header past goalkeeper Uğur Çakır. It was a dream start for the Americans, who had already secured top spot in the group.
10' — Güler responds in style: Turkey's young star Arda Güler collected a pass from Baris Alper Yilmaz, cut inside, and lashed a left-footed shot into the far corner. The equaliser was a moment of pure quality.
31' — Yilmaz puts Turkey ahead: Orkun Kökçü's delivery was met by Yilmaz, who rose highest to nod home. Turkey had turned the game around in devastating fashion.
49' — Berhalter atones: The USA midfielder, who had been booked in the first half, scored a fine individual goal — driving forward and finishing low past Çakır. It was his second direct goal involvement of the game.
90+8' — Ayhan wins it: With the clock ticking into the eighth minute of added time, Kaan Ayhan pounced on a loose ball inside the box and fired home. The Turkish fans erupted as their team snatched a vital victory.
Match Analysis
Turkey's approach was direct and aggressive. They allowed the USA to dominate possession (53%) but were clinical in front of goal, scoring three times from just four shots on target. The midfield battle was intense, with both sides committing 13 fouls each. Turkey's discipline was better — they received no yellow cards compared to Berhalter's caution — but they also rode their luck at times.
The USA, despite having already qualified, showed no signs of complacency. They created 18 total shots (seven on target) and forced Çakır into five saves. However, their defensive lapses proved costly. The backline, which had been so solid in previous games, was caught out by Turkey's quick transitions. Berhalter's goal was a bright spot, but his earlier booking and the eventual defeat will be a concern for the coaching staff.
Player Performances
Sebastian Berhalter (USA) — 8.84 rating: The midfielder was the USA's best player, scoring one and assisting another. His energy and drive were central to the American attack, though his yellow card was a minor blemish.
Baris Alper Yilmaz (Turkey) — 8.33 rating: A goal and an assist for the Turkish forward, who was a constant menace. His movement and link-up play were outstanding.
Kaan Ayhan (Turkey) — 7.63 rating: The hero of the hour, scoring the late winner. His composure in the box was remarkable given the pressure.
Arda Güler (Turkey) — 7.54 rating: A stunning equaliser and a lively performance. The teenager continues to shine on the biggest stage.
Auston Trusty (USA) — 6.70 rating: Scored the opener but was part of a defence that conceded three times. His rating reflects the mixed nature of his display.
Uğur Çakır (Turkey) — 6.68 rating: Made five saves, including several crucial stops, but could do little about the two goals conceded.
Key Stats
- Turkey scored three goals from just four shots on target; USA had seven shots on target but only two goals.
- USA dominated corners (9-2) and total shots (18-9), but Turkey were more efficient.
- Both teams committed 13 fouls; only one yellow card was shown — to Berhalter.
- Turkey had 47% possession but created the better chances when it mattered.
What This Means
For Turkey, this win lifts them to fourth in the group with three points from three games (one win, one draw, one loss). They still have a negative goal difference (-3) but are alive in the tournament. For the USA, despite the defeat, they remain top of Group D with seven points (two wins, one draw) and a +5 goal difference. They have already secured their place in the knockout stage.
What Happens Next
Turkey will now watch the other Group D results closely. Their fate is no longer in their own hands, but victory here gives them a fighting chance. The USA, meanwhile, can rest key players in their next match if needed. They will look to tighten up defensively before the round of 16. For now, both teams can reflect on a memorable contest that had everything — except a draw.
Check the full fixtures and standings for more details. Follow Turkey's team page and the USA's team page for updates.
