Ayhan’s Last-Gasp Strike Hands Turkey Famous Victory Over USA

Turkey ended their FIFA World Cup campaign on a high with a dramatic 3-2 victory over a much-changed United States side, thanks to Kaan Ayhan’s late winner in an entertaining Group D encounter at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Having already secured top spot in the group, the United States rested several first-team players ahead of next week’s Round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Turkey, already eliminated after defeats to Paraguay and Australia, were playing only for pride.

The Americans made a dream start when defender Auston Trusty, one of nine changes to the starting line-up, converted from a corner after just three minutes to score his first international goal. The strike became the USA’s second-fastest goal in FIFA World Cup history.

Turkey responded impressively after failing to score in their opening two matches. Real Madrid star Arda Güler ended that drought in the 10th minute, finishing clinically after Barış Alper Yılmaz’s cut-back following a clever dummy that deceived the American defence.

Tempers flared midway through the first half when Turkey’s bench stormed onto the pitch following a robust challenge from Sebastian Berhalter, who was shown a yellow card.

The United States thought they had regained the lead through Mark McKenzie, but the defender’s close-range finish was ruled out for offside.

Turkey then completed the turnaround in the 31st minute as Güler released Eren Elmalı down the left, whose cross found Yılmaz to slot past Matt Turner.

The Americans battled back in the second half to level the contest before Ayhan struck deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable victory for Turkey.

Although the defeat ended the USA’s perfect group-stage record, they still progress as Group D winners, while Turkey bow out with a morale-boosting first win of the tournament.