Late Drama as Turkiye Edges Past US in World Cup 2026
In a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Turkiye defeated the United States 3-2, clinching victory with a stunning stoppage-time goal from Kaan Ayhan. This match marked a significant moment for Turkiye as they handed the US their first loss in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Match Overview
The game, often referred to as a 'dead rubber' due to its low stakes, turned into a nail-biter, showcasing both teams' determination to finish strong in the tournament. Despite the US already securing their spot in the knockout stages, they entered the match with high hopes of maintaining their unbeaten streak.
First Half Highlights
The first half saw an intense back-and-forth battle, with both teams creating several scoring opportunities. Turkiye opened the scoring early, putting pressure on the US defense with aggressive plays. However, the US responded quickly, leveling the score through a well-placed shot that caught the Turkish goalkeeper off guard.
Second Half Showdown
As the second half progressed, the match continued to swing like a pendulum. Turkiye reclaimed the lead with a powerful strike from outside the box, sending their supporters into a frenzy. The US, showing resilience, fought back once again, equalizing with a header from a corner kick that left the Turkish defense scrambling.




