Turkey delivered one of the most dramatic results of the tournament with a 3-2 victory over the United States, sealed by Kaan Ayhan’s 98th-minute winner in a pulsating Group D clash. The late strike turned an already gripping contest into a potentially decisive moment in the race for qualification.
The United States twice moved in front and looked on course to take at least a point. Auston Trusty opened the scoring before Turkey responded through Arda Guler, keeping the game finely balanced. Sebastian Berhalter then restored the American lead, but Turkey again found an answer as Baris Yilmaz levelled to set up a tense finish.
Just when the match appeared to be drifting toward a draw, Ayhan struck deep into stoppage time to complete Turkey’s comeback and snatch all three points. The timing of the goal gave the result even greater significance, dramatically altering the mood and standings in Group D.
Turkey’s ability to respond under pressure was central to the win. Guler and Yilmaz provided the attacking spark to cancel out the United States’ advantages, while Ayhan delivered the decisive moment when the stakes were highest. It was a display of resilience and composure in a match that repeatedly threatened to swing away from them.
For the United States, the defeat will feel especially cruel. Scoring twice in a major group-stage game should usually be enough to come away with something, but defensive lapses and the late collapse left them empty-handed. Trusty and Berhalter made meaningful contributions, yet the Americans could not see out the closing stages.
In tournament football, single moments can redefine an entire group. Ayhan’s last-gasp winner did exactly that, giving Turkey a statement victory and leaving the United States to reflect on a painful missed opportunity.
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