Türkiye concluded its 2026 World Cup campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over the United States at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler played a pivotal role in the upset, scoring his nation’s first goal of the tournament to spark a spirited comeback.
Despite Türkiye entering the match already eliminated from contention, they spoiled the USA’s perfect group stage record. The Americans struck first, but Türkiye responded quickly in the seventh minute. A defensive lapse by Weston McKennie allowed Baris Alper Yilmaz to find Arda Güler in the center of the penalty box. Güler’s clinical strike beat U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner, marking a significant moment for the young star on the global stage.
Orkun Kökçü added a second goal in the 31st minute following an assist from Eren Elmali, giving Türkiye their first lead of the tournament. The match eventually concluded with a late goal from Kaan Ayhan in the final moments of the game, sealing the 3-2 result. While the U.S. had already secured its place in the Round of 32 as Group D winners, the victory serves as a high-profile validation of Güler’s talent and Türkiye’s resilience in a challenging group.