Türkiye Stuns United States with Dramatic Last-Second Winner Despite Americans Winning Group D

Türkiye secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over the United States with the final kick of the match in an entertaining FIFA World Cup Group D encounter at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Thursday night. Kaan Ayhan emerged as the hero by scoring deep into stoppage time, giving Türkiye its first and only victory of the tournament despite already being eliminated from knockout contention.

Although the defeat ended the United States’ perfect group stage record, Mauricio Pochettino’s side had already secured top spot in Group D following earlier victories over Paraguay and Australia. The Americans now advance to the Round of 32, where they will face Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday.

With qualification already assured, Pochettino rotated his squad heavily by introducing nine new starters for the final group match. Captain Christian Pulisic, who had been sidelined since suffering a calf injury during the opening match against Paraguay, made his long awaited return as a second half substitute, much to the delight of the home supporters.

The United States made an ideal start, taking the lead in just the third minute. Defender Auston Trusty rose to meet a perfectly delivered corner and powered his effort inside the post, sending the packed stadium into celebration. The goal marked the Americans’ seventh of the tournament, equalling the nation’s highest goal tally ever recorded during the group stage of a FIFA World Cup.

Türkiye responded with determination and gradually took control of the contest. The equaliser arrived in the 10th minute after an impressive attacking move involving Baris Alper Yilmaz and Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler. The talented 21 year old calmly finished the move to level the score and restore confidence to the Turkish side.

Güler continued to influence the match with his creativity and vision. In the 31st minute, his intelligent build up play helped create another opportunity, which Orkun Kökçü converted from close range to give Türkiye a 2-1 advantage before halftime. Remarkably, Türkiye scored with both of its shots on target during the opening 45 minutes, making the most of its opportunities against the American defence.

The United States returned after the break with renewed energy and found an equaliser just four minutes into the second half. Sebastian Berhalter reacted quickest to a loose ball outside the penalty area before unleashing a powerful strike that flew into the net, bringing the score level at 2-2.

Pulisic entered the match in the 58th minute to a standing ovation from the home crowd. His return immediately lifted the American attack as he produced several dangerous runs and created scoring opportunities. Within minutes of coming on, he nearly restored the American lead with a well struck effort that was brilliantly tipped onto the goalpost by Turkish goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir. The rebound fell kindly for Brenden Aaronson, but the midfielder was unable to convert from close range.

Both teams continued searching for a winner during an open and entertaining final half hour. The atmosphere inside the sold out stadium remained electric as supporters from both nations witnessed end to end football filled with attacking intent and missed opportunities.

Just as the match appeared destined to finish level, Türkiye produced one final attack deep into stoppage time. Can Uzun found space near the far post and intelligently squared the ball across goal after drawing goalkeeper Matt Turner out of position. Kaan Ayhan arrived at the perfect moment, sliding in to guide the ball into the net with virtually the last touch of the match and sealing an unforgettable 3-2 victory for Türkiye.

Although the result did not alter the group standings, it provided Türkiye with a memorable finish to its World Cup campaign after suffering defeats in its opening two matches despite producing several strong performances. The victory served as a reward for the team’s persistence and attacking approach throughout the tournament.

For the United States, the defeat will quickly be put aside as attention shifts to the knockout stage. Having already secured first place in Group D, the Americans remain optimistic about their chances of progressing further in the tournament. The successful return of Christian Pulisic also provides a major boost ahead of the crucial Round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The thrilling contest also entered the tournament record books. Trusty’s early goal became the 173rd goal scored during the competition, setting a new FIFA World Cup record for the highest number of goals scored before the knockout stage, surpassing the previous mark established at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar despite being achieved in fewer matches.

Despite the disappointment of losing in dramatic fashion, the United States completed an impressive group stage campaign by finishing as Group D winners, while Türkiye departed the tournament with pride after producing a memorable final performance and claiming a famous victory over one of the host nations.

Courtesy: sportsnet