Turkey secured a stunning 3-2 victory over the United States in a World Cup 2026 group stage match on June 26, eliminating the host nation from the tournament with a dramatic last-minute goal.
First Half Action
The match started at a frantic pace, with both teams creating early chances. Turkey took the lead in the 15th minute when striker Burak Yılmaz latched onto a through ball and slotted past US goalkeeper Matt Turner. The USA responded quickly, equalizing just 10 minutes later through Christian Pulisic, who curled a free kick over the wall and into the top corner.
Turkey regained the lead before halftime when Hakan Çalhanoğlu scored a stunning long-range effort in the 38th minute, leaving Turner with no chance. The first half ended 2-1 in favor of the visitors.
Second Half Drama
The USA came out strong after the break and dominated possession. Their pressure paid off in the 67th minute when Weston McKennie headed home from a corner to make it 2-2. The home crowd roared, sensing a comeback that would keep their World Cup hopes alive.
As the match seemed headed for a draw, Turkey launched one final attack. In the 89th minute, substitute Cenk Tosun rose highest to meet a cross and headed the ball past Turner, sending the Turkish bench into wild celebrations. The goal was confirmed after a VAR check for offside.
The USA pushed forward in stoppage time but could not find an equalizer. The final whistle confirmed a 3-2 victory for Turkey, eliminating the host nation from the tournament.
Impact and Reactions
The defeat was a crushing blow for the United States, who had hoped to progress deep into the tournament on home soil. Coach Gregg Berhalter said, "We gave everything, but football can be cruel. We are devastated for the fans."
Turkey's coach, Stefan Kuntz, praised his team's resilience: "We knew it would be tough, but the players showed incredible character. This is a historic win for Turkish football."
With this result, Turkey advanced to the knockout stages, while the USA's World Cup campaign ended in the group stage for the second consecutive tournament.
