Turkey ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a high note by stunning co-hosts the United States 3-2 in an entertaining Group D clash, with Kaan Ayhan netting a dramatic stoppage-time winner.
Although already eliminated after defeats to Australia and Paraguay, Turkey produced a spirited performance to claim their first victory of the tournament. The United States had already secured top spot in the group before kickoff and made several changes to their starting lineup ahead of their Round of 32 meeting with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Americans made a flying start when defender Auston Trusty scored his first international goal less than three minutes into the game after controlling a corner at the far post.
Turkey responded quickly, with Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler drawing his side level in the 10th minute after combining well with Baris Alper Yilmaz. Yilmaz then completed the comeback just after the half-hour mark, finishing off another impressive attacking move to give Turkey a 2-1 advantage before halftime.
The hosts restored parity shortly after the restart as Sebastian Berhalter fired home from the edge of the penalty area following a failed Turkish clearance.
Christian Pulisic also returned from injury during the second half and nearly inspired a late winner, forcing two saves from close range and striking the post. However, it was Turkey who grabbed the decisive goal, with Ayhan scoring from close range deep into stoppage time to hand the United States their first defeat of the tournament.
In the other Group D fixture, Australia secured a place in the Round of 32 after playing out a goalless draw against Paraguay in Santa Clara.
The result saw Australia finish second in the group behind the United States, while Paraguay remained in the race for a knockout spot as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams. Despite the loss, the United States progressed to the knockout stage as Group D winners.
