Follow Us on Google
Turkey ended their FIFA World Cup campaign on a high after Kaan Ayhan struck with virtually the final kick of the match to hand the United States a dramatic 3-2 defeat in their final Group D fixture at Los Angeles Stadium.
Despite the defeat, the USA advanced to the Round of 32 as group winners, while Australia claimed second place after a goalless draw against Paraguay.
The hosts made a dream start when Auston Trusty headed home after just three minutes from a Sebastian Berhalter delivery. However, Turkey responded strongly as Arda Güler levelled in the 10th minute after being set up by Barış Alper Yılmaz before Yılmaz completed the turnaround in the 31st minute from an Orkun Kökçü assist to give the Turks a 2-1 lead at half-time.
The Americans restored parity four minutes into the second half through Sebastian Berhalter, setting up an entertaining finish as both sides pushed for a winner. Christian Pulisic came closest for the USA when his curling effort narrowly missed the target, while Turkey continued to threaten through Güler and Barış Alper Yılmaz.
Other News
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Turkey launched one final attack deep into stoppage time. The ball was worked across the face of goal for substitute Kaan Ayhan, who tapped home in the 98th minute to spark wild celebrations among the Turkish players and supporters.
Although the victory came too late to rescue Turkey’s World Cup campaign, it denied the USA a perfect group-stage record and provided a memorable end to their tournament.
The result had no impact on qualification as Mauricio Pochettino’s side had already secured passage to the knockout stage. Australia joined them in the Round of 32 after holding Paraguay to a 0-0 draw, while Paraguay finished third and must now wait to discover whether four points will be enough to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
The USA will now shift focus to the knockout rounds after topping Group D, while Turkey depart the competition with a morale-boosting victory earned in dramatic fashion.
