Turkey secured their first and only victory of the World Cup on Thursday, beating a heavily rotated United States side 3-2 thanks to Kaan Ayhan’s dramatic last-gasp winner in Los Angeles.
The result had no impact on Group D standings, with the United States having already secured top spot and qualification for the Round of 32, where they will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara. Turkey, meanwhile, bowed out of the tournament on a positive note after recovering from an early deficit and exposing gaps in the American defence throughout the contest.
The hosts took the lead for the third consecutive match when defender Auston Trusty headed home in the third minute, delighting a sell-out crowd at Los Angeles Stadium. However, Turkey responded strongly and remained a threat throughout a lively encounter played with attacking intent from both sides.
One of the loudest cheers of the night came in the 58th minute when Christian Pulisic made his first appearance since suffering a calf injury in the tournament opener against Paraguay. The U.S. captain looked sharp after coming on and was involved in several heated exchanges as the match grew increasingly competitive.
The Americans suffered a late scare when goalscorer Trusty was carried off on a stretcher with an apparent hamstring injury shortly before full-time.
Turkey had the final say, as substitute Ayhan struck with virtually the last kick of the game to silence the home crowd and hand his side a consolation victory.
“I’m super happy with how they played tonight, they showed all of their skills, abilities and character,” Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella said. “If they weren’t strong they wouldn’t have made it tonight. We can go back home with our chin up.”
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
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