World Cup 2026: Turkey Beat USA 3-2 With 98th-Minute Winner as Pulisic Returns

Turkey ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a high with a dramatic 3-2 victory over co-hosts the United States, as Kaan Ayhan scored a stoppage-time winner in an entertaining Group D clash in Los Angeles.

Although Turkey had already been eliminated following defeats to Australia and Paraguay, Vincenzo Montella's side produced a spirited performance to claim their first and only win of the tournament.

The United States, who had already secured qualification as Group D winners before kick-off, suffered their first defeat of the competition despite welcoming captain Christian Pulisic back from injury.

The Americans made a dream start when defender Auston Trusty headed home from a corner in the third minute to give Mauricio Pochettino's side an early lead.

Turkey responded quickly and restored parity seven minutes later through Arda Güler, who finished clinically after capitalising on defensive hesitation.

The momentum shifted further in Turkey's favour just after the half-hour mark. Moments after Mark McKenzie's goal was ruled out for offside, Barış Yılmaz converted from close range to complete the turnaround and hand Turkey a 2-1 advantage.

The United States came out strongly after the interval and drew level in the 49th minute when Sebastian Berhalter drilled a low effort into the bottom corner from the edge of the penalty area.

There was further encouragement for the home supporters in the 58th minute as Christian Pulisic made his long-awaited return after recovering from a calf injury.

The AC Milan forward almost marked his comeback with a goal six minutes later, but Turkey goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır produced an excellent save to push his powerful strike onto the post.

With both sides pushing for a winner, Turkey delivered the decisive blow in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Substitute Can Uzun's dangerous cross-shot was turned over the line by fellow substitute Kaan Ayhan from close range, sealing a memorable victory for the European side.

Despite the defeat, the United States finished top of Group D and advance to the Round of 32, where they will continue their quest on home soil.

Turkey, meanwhile, bow out of the tournament with their heads held high after ending a frustrating campaign in dramatic fashion. Their late victory provided a fitting reward after failing to convert numerous chances in their opening two group matches, where they registered 62 shots without finding the net.