The United States Men’s National Team enters its final Group D match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with qualification already secured and top spot in hand. Facing an eliminated Türkiye side at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Thursday evening, coach Mauricio Pochettino has signaled a significant rotation while still emphasizing the importance of finishing the group stage with three victories.
USA defeated Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 in its opening matches, scoring six goals and conceding just one. The results locked in advancement and gave Pochettino’s squad early confidence. Türkiye, by contrast, has yet to score in 180 minutes of tournament play after losses to Australia and Paraguay. The Turks are already out, but coach Vincenzo Montella has stressed the importance of playing for national pride in what is only their second World Cup appearance since 2002.
Pochettino addressed the media on Wednesday and made clear his intent. “We want to win,” he said. “We want to arrive to the next stage with three victories.” He also noted full respect for Türkiye, describing the opponents as a competitive side with quality players who will fight hard despite elimination. Several US players echoed that sentiment in pre-match comments, stressing they would not take the match lightly.
The biggest factor shaping the lineup is the yellow-card situation. Tyler Adams, Chris Richards, Folarin Balogun and Antonee Robinson are all one booking away from a suspension that would carry into the round of 32. Pochettino confirmed those four will not start. Cristian Roldan, Adams’ primary backup, is dealing with a minor muscle injury and is doubtful. Christian Pulisic, returning from a calf issue, is also listed as doubtful and expected to be rested or used sparingly.
These constraints open the door for depth players. Reports and predicted lineups point to Matt Freese or Matt Turner in goal, with Joe Scally or Max Arfsten at right back, Mark McKenzie and Auston Trusty or Miles Robinson in central defense, and Alex Freeman or Sergino Dest providing width. In midfield, Sebastian Berhalter and Weston McKennie or Malik Tillman are likely to anchor the center, while Brenden Aaronson, Giovanni Reyna and Tim Weah offer attacking options. Up front, Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright is projected to lead the line, with Alejandro Zendejas possibly featuring on the wing.
For Türkiye, Montella is expected to field a motivated side looking to end the tournament on a positive note. Key figures include captain Hakan Çalhano?lu pulling the strings in midfield, young talents Arda Güler and Kenan Y?ld?z providing creativity, and Bar?? Alper Y?lmaz or Kerem Aktürko?lu adding width. Up front, Deniz Gül or a similar option will be tasked with giving the attack a focal point. Yunus Akgün remains a doubt with a minor injury.
Players to watch on the American side include Giovanni Reyna, whose vision and dribbling can unlock defenses, and Tim Weah, who brings pace and directness on the flanks. Weston McKennie’s energy in midfield will be vital if he starts, while Pepi or Wright will look to capitalize on any service. For Türkiye, Güler’s ability to create chances from deep and Çalhano?lu’s set-piece delivery and long-range threat make them dangerous even against a rotated opponent.
Tactically, USA is expected to maintain a structured 4-2-3-1 or similar shape, pressing high and using the home crowd at SoFi Stadium as an extra man. Türkiye may adopt a more direct approach or look to counter, hoping to finally find the net. The match offers Pochettino a chance to test combinations and give minutes to squad players ahead of the knockout stage.
Prediction: USA 2-1 Türkiye. The co-hosts should have enough quality and motivation to secure a third win and finish the group unbeaten, though Türkiye’s talented individuals and desire to leave with at least one point could produce a competitive contest and a late goal for the visitors.
