Turkey snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory over the United States in their Group C encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a late strike from substitute Kerem Aktürkoğlu in the 89th minute breaking American hearts at the Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
First Half: USA Dominate but Fail to Convert
The USA started brightly, controlling possession and creating several early chances. Christian Pulisic forced a fine save from Turkish goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır in the 12th minute, while Weston McKennie headed wide from a corner shortly after. Turkey, however, grew into the game and took the lead against the run of play in the 34th minute. Hakan Çalhanoğlu's precise free-kick found the head of Merih Demiral, who powered the ball past Matt Turner. The goal stunned the American crowd, but the US responded well and equalized just before halftime. A swift counter-attack ended with Timothy Weah crossing for Ricardo Pepi, who slotted home from close range in the 44th minute.
Second Half: Tactical Battle and Late Drama
The second half was a tight affair, with both teams cautious in possession. The USA had a golden opportunity in the 67th minute when Pulisic's shot was cleared off the line by Çağlar Söyüncü. Turkey's coach Vincenzo Montella introduced fresh legs, bringing on Aktürkoğlu and Yusuf Yazıcı to add energy. The move paid off in the 89th minute when a long ball from defender Abdülkerim Bardakcı was misjudged by US center-back Chris Richards, allowing Aktürkoğlu to race through and chip the ball over the advancing Turner. The goal sent the Turkish bench into raptures and silenced the majority of the 72,000-strong crowd.
Impact on Group C
The result leaves Group C wide open. The USA, who had won their opening match against Iran, now have three points, level with Turkey and England, who beat Iran earlier. The final group matches will decide who advances to the round of 16. Turkey's victory keeps their hopes alive after a disappointing draw with England in their opener. According to FIFA statistics, Turkey's win was built on resilience and clinical finishing, with only 38% possession but four shots on target to the USA's six. The late goal was a testament to their never-say-die attitude, as Montella said after the match: "We believed until the end. This team has great character."
Key Performances and Looking Ahead
For Turkey, Çalhanoğlu was instrumental in midfield, while Demiral's goal and defensive solidity earned him the man-of-the-match award. For the USA, Pulisic was a constant threat but lacked the final product. The US will now face England in a crucial final group match, while Turkey takes on Iran. Both teams need a win to guarantee progression, setting up a thrilling conclusion to Group C.
