World Cup 2026: USMNT stunned by Türkiye in stoppage time, losing perfect group stage run

Key Points:

• The U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) lost 3-2 to Türkiye in their Group D finale at SoFi Stadium, despite having already secured first place in the group and advancement to the Round of 32.
• With many first-choice players rested, including Christian Pulisic who entered in the 58th minute, the U.S. started strong but conceded two goals before halftime, eventually losing to a stoppage-time winner by substitute Kaan Ayhan.
• Sebastian Berhalter was a key contributor, scoring a thunderous equalizer and assisting on the early goal by Auston Trusty, who scored his first international goal in just 134 seconds—the second fastest in U.S. World Cup history.
• The U.S. will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 in Santa Clara, California, while Türkiye was eliminated after failing to score in their previous two matches and facing criticism for their performance and coaching.
• Despite the loss, the U.S. players and coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed confidence moving forward, emphasizing the depth and readiness of the squad to step up in the knockout stage.