Sport
World Cup 2026: Turkey stun USA late as Australia hold Paraguay to seal last-32 place
Key Points
Turkey stun USA late as Australia hold Paraguay to seal last-32 place The United States and Turkey delivered a dramatic Group D finale, as Kaan Ayhan’s stoppage-time goal secured a 3-2 win for Turkey and brought Team USA’s perfect group-stage run to an end, although their qualification had already been confirmed. In the parallel fixture, Australia’s draw with Paraguay ensured their progression to the last 32, with Paraguay also likely to advance.
World Cup 2026: Turkey stun USA late as Australia hold Paraguay to seal last-32 place
The United States and Turkey delivered a dramatic Group D finale, as Kaan Ayhan’s stoppage-time goal secured a 3-2 win for Turkey and brought Team USA’s perfect group-stage run to an end, although their qualification had already been confirmed. In the parallel fixture, Australia’s draw with Paraguay ensured their progression to the last 32, with Paraguay also likely to advance.
Turkey snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory over the USA in Los Angeles thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Kaan Ayhan, ending the USMNT’s perfect group-stage run in this World Cup. Despite the defeat, the USA had already secured qualification, while Turkey were already eliminated before kick-off. In the parallel match, Australia held Paraguay to a draw, a result that seals both teams’ progression to the last 32.
The United States started strongly and opened the scoring early through Auston Trusty, capitalising on defensive hesitation inside the Turkish area. Their high pressing and intensity initially controlled the tempo, with Türkiye struggling to settle.
Turkey gradually grew into the contest through Arda Güler and Orkun Kökçü, with the latter finishing a well-worked move to bring the visitors level. Güler once again stood out with his technical quality and creativity, helping Türkiye gain a foothold in midfield.
The second half swung back and forth. Mark McKenzie briefly saw a goal ruled out for offside, before Kökçü struck again to put Turkey ahead. The USA responded through Sebastian Berhalter, who levelled with a powerful first-time strike from distance to make it 2-2.
Pulisic's return
Christian Pulisic, introduced to a loud reception at SoFi Stadium, came close to deciding the match but was twice denied by outstanding saves from Uğurcan Çakır. However, deep into stoppage time, Kaan Ayhan pounced on a rebound to score from close range and seal a 3-2 victory for Türkiye.
Elsewhere, Australia’s draw with Paraguay confirmed both teams’ qualification for the last 32, completing a dramatic final matchday in Group D.
(FRANCE 24 with AFP)