Turkey stun altered USA lineup 3-2 with last-minute goal in FIFA World Cup group finale

Turkey signed off from the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the United States, scoring with virtually the last kick of the game in an entertaining Group D finale at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California.

The result had little impact on the standings, with the United States having already secured first place in Group D before kickoff. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino made nine changes to his starting lineup, resting several regulars ahead of the knockout rounds while giving squad players valuable minutes.

The Americans made the perfect start when defender Auston Trusty headed home in the third minute, continuing the hosts' trend of scoring early in every group-stage match. Turkey, however, responded impressively as Arda Güler equalised before Barış Alper Yılmaz completed the turnaround to hand the visitors a 2-1 lead at halftime.

The United States restored parity shortly after the restart through Sebastian Berhalter, whose long-range strike made it 2-2 and set up an exciting finish. Christian Pulisic also returned from a calf injury as a second-half substitute, providing a timely boost ahead of the knockout stage.

With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Turkey struck in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Can Uzun found space at the back post and squared the ball across goal for substitute Kaan Ayhan, who tapped into an empty net to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory. It was Turkey's first and only win of the tournament after opening defeats to Australia and Paraguay.

Although disappointed to miss out on an unbeaten group-stage record, the United States can take comfort from finishing as Group D winners with six points. The co-hosts will now shift their attention to a Round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara, where Pochettino is expected to recall several first-choice players. Turkey, meanwhile, exit the tournament with renewed pride after producing one of the most entertaining performances of their campaign.