2026 World Cup: Turkey vs. United States—Probable Lineups
At SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, near Los Angeles, Group D action comes to a close with a match that, in fact, no longer affects the group standings. On Friday, June 26, at 4 a.m. Italian time (7 p.m. local time on June 25), Turkey and the United States will face off simultaneously with the do-or-die match between Paraguay and Australia, well aware that their fates have already been sealed (positively for the U.S., negatively for Turkey).
Considered before the tournament as one of the potential major upsets, Vincenzo Montella’s Turkey heads into the final matchday in last place in the group, with zero points and already mathematically eliminated. A disastrous campaign, which saw the Turks collapse under pressure from Australia (2-0) and then narrowly lose to a Paraguay side that was down to ten men (1-0).
Critics are pulling no punches: the Turkish team’s immediate and dramatic collapse takes on the proportions of a sensation when one considers the technical depth of a roster that boasts stars of the caliber of Arda Güler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, and Kenan Yıldız. A lack of tactical balance and mental fragility at decisive moments have dashed the fans’ dreams of glory, turning this final match into little more than a ceremonial walkout to salvage national pride. Montella, intent on rotating the roster, is relying on the pride of captain Calhanoglu and the creativity of Guler, hoping that without the pressure of having to win, his players’ talent will finally shine through.
It’s a completely different story for the hosts. Mauricio Pochettino’s United States team has dominated the group and sits firmly in first place with 6 points and a goal difference of +5, thanks to convincing 4-1 and 2-0 victories over Paraguay and Australia, respectively. With qualification for the Round of 16 already secured as group leaders, the Americans’ goal is to maintain momentum in front of their home crowd and manage their energy levels.
Head coach Pochettino will take this opportunity to make significant lineup changes, resting players on yellow cards (including Adams, Balogun, and Richards) and avoiding risks with injured stars like Pulisic. Freese will start in goal, with Scally and Arfsten on the flanks in defense. In midfield, Roldan’s experience will guide the younger players, while Reyna and Pepi will form the core of the attack to exploit the vulnerable Turkish backline.
Probable Lineups
TURKEY (4-2-3-1): Cakir; Muldur, Demiral, Kabak, Kadioglu; Ozcan, Calhanoglu; Akgun, Guler, Yildiz; Gul. Head Coach: Montella.
UNITED STATES (4-2-3-1): Freese; Scally, McKenzie, Trusty, Arfsten; Roldan, Berhalter; Weah, Reyna, Zendejas; Pepi. Head Coach: Pochettino.
