This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.
The 2026 World Cup served up one of its most dramatic moments yet as co-hosts United States suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Turkey at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles — courtesy of a stoppage-time winner with literally the last kick of the game. Despite the loss, the US had already secured top spot in their group and will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Round of 32 on July 2.
A Night of High Drama in LA
With Hollywood royalty including Brad Pitt, Ed Norton, and Owen Wilson watching from the stands, the atmosphere was electric. And the US gave their fans the perfect start — Celtic defender Auston Trusty powered home a low drive from a corner just 2 minutes and 13 seconds into the match. It’s the second-fastest goal in US World Cup history, trailing only Clint Dempsey’s iconic 30-second strike against Ghana in 2014.
But Turkey, already eliminated after losing their first two group games, refused to roll over. Vincenzo Montella’s young side showed incredible fight.
Turkey Fights Back
Real Madrid’s rising star Arda Güler equalized with a close-range finish after a clever reverse pass from Barış Alper Yılmaz. Minutes later, Orkun Kökçü‘s shot deflected off Yılmaz’s thigh from a sweeping move down the left — and just like that, Turkey had turned the game around.
The US came out firing in the second half. Sebastian Berhalter leveled the score with a beautiful 20-yard strike into the bottom-left corner. Substitute Christian Pulisic went close three times in search of a winner, with Turkish keeper Uğurcan Çakır making a brilliant save to tip one effort against the post.
The Heartbreak Moment
Just when it looked like the US would salvage a draw, disaster struck. In the dying seconds, Kaan Ayhan prodded home Can Uzun’s flick-on — the ball crossed the line with the very last kick of the match. SoFi Stadium fell silent.
It was Turkey’s first World Cup victory since 2002.
What Next for Team USA?
Despite the defeat, Mauricio Pochettino’s side had already secured top spot in their group thanks to their earlier win over Australia. They now prepare for a Round of 32 clash against Bosnia-Herzegovina on July 2 in Santa Clara.
Pochettino will likely rotate back to his strongest XI after making nine changes against Turkey. The squad has shown real depth and resilience throughout the tournament.
Upcoming US Matches at World Cup 2026
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round of 32: USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina | July 2, 2026 | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA | 8:00 PM ET |
| Potential Round of 16 | July 6-7 | TBD | TBD |
FAQ
Did the USA still qualify for the knockout stage?
Yes! Despite losing to Turkey, the US had already secured top spot in their group after wins over Australia. They face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Round of 32.
Who scored for the US against Turkey?
Auston Trusty opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, and Sebastian Berhalter added the equalizer in the second half.
When and where is the next US match?
USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina on July 2, 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California at 8:00 PM ET.
How many changes did Pochettino make for the Turkey game?
Pochettino made nine changes to his starting lineup, resting key players for the knockout stage.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.