Turkey Edge USA 3-2 in Thriller: Kaan Ayhan’s Last-Gasp Winner Ends Turks’ World Cup on a High

Inglewood, California — June 25, 2026 — In a pulsating Group D encounter at SoFi Stadium, Turkey produced a spirited comeback victory over the United States, winning 3-2 with a dramatic goal in the 98th minute. Kaan Ayhan’s stoppage-time strike secured Turkey’s first win of the tournament, while the already-qualified USA rested key players but still pushed their opponents all the way.

The match, played in front of a passionate crowd in Los Angeles, showcased end-to-end action and highlighted the attacking talent on both sides despite limited stakes for the co-hosts.

Match Action: Goals Galore in a Dead Rubber

Auston Trusty gave the USA an early lead in the 3rd minute, continuing the Americans’ strong start to the group stage. However, Arda Güler quickly responded for Turkey in the 10th minute with a moment of magic, leveling the score at 1-1.

Barış Alper Yılmaz put Turkey ahead in the 31st minute, finishing clinically to make it 2-1 before halftime. The USA, fielding a rotated squad under Mauricio Pochettino, refused to go down easily. Sebastian Berhalter equalized early in the second half (49th minute) with a composed strike from outside the box, setting up a tense finale.

With the game seemingly headed for a draw, Turkey mounted one final attack in added time. In the 98th minute, Kaan Ayhan pounced on a loose ball in the box to fire home the winner, sparking wild celebrations among the Turkish players and fans.

Full-time: Turkey 3-2 USA Goals:

• Turkey: Arda Güler (10'), Barış Alper Yılmaz (31'), Kaan Ayhan (90'+8')
• USA: Auston Trusty (3'), Sebastian Berhalter (49')

Group D Implications

The result had no impact on qualification. The USA topped Group D with six points and will head into the Round of 32 with momentum and a favorable path. Turkey finished the group with three points from one win and two losses, bowing out of the tournament but ending on a positive note.

Key Performers:

• Arda Güler (Turkey) — Sparked the comeback with a brilliant early goal and constant creativity.
• Kaan Ayhan (Turkey) — Hero of the night with the dramatic winner.
• Sebastian Berhalter (USA) — Impressive showing in a rotated side.
• Auston Trusty (USA) — Early goal and solid defensive contributions.

This entertaining contest provided fans with a fitting end to the group stage in Los Angeles. While the USA shifts focus to the knockout rounds, Turkey can take pride in a hard-fought display against strong co-hosts.

Turkey 3-2 USA — a match that delivered drama until the final whistle.

Stay tuned for more 2026 FIFA World Cup coverage as the Round of 32 begins.