We bid farewell to the World Cup with a victory

In the third and final week of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D, the Turkish National Football Team faced host nation USA at Los Angeles Stadium. Having no chance to advance from the group, the Crescent-Stars won the match 3-2, leaving the tournament with a victory.

Turkey's goals in the match were scored by Arda Güler in the 10th minute, Orkun Kökçü in the 31st minute, and Kaan Ayhan in the 90+8th minute. The USA's goals came from Trusty in the 3rd minute and Berhalter in the 49th minute.

FAREWELL TO THE TOURNAMENT WITH 3 POINTS

Having lost 2-0 to Australia in their first World Cup match and 1-0 to Paraguay in their second, the Turkish National Football Team finished the tournament with 3 points by defeating the USA in their final group stage match.

24-YEAR WORLD CUP GOAL DROUGHT ENDED

The goal scored by Arda Güler in the 10th minute of the match not only leveled the score for the Turkish National Football Team but also ended a significant drought in their World Cup history.

Turkey had scored its last goal in the FIFA World Cup during the 2002 tournament, courtesy of İlhan Mansız against South Korea. With Arda Güler finding the back of the net against the USA, the Crescent-Stars celebrated a goal in the World Cup once again after a 24-year hiatus.

VICTORY CAME IN THE FINAL MINUTE

Maintaining their pressure during the stoppage time of the match, the Turkish National Team took a 3-2 lead with a goal from Kaan Ayhan in the 90+8th minute.

News Source: 12punto