Ayhan stuns hosts as Turkey edge USA in thriller

Turkey claimed a dramatic 3-2 victory over a heavily rotated United States side, with Kaan Ayhan scoring deep into stoppage time to deliver the co‑hosts their toughest test of the World Cup so far. The USA, already confirmed as Group D winners, struck early when Auston Trusty smashed in his first international goal from a corner. Turkey responded quickly, ending their long scoring drought as Arda Güler finished a slick move to equalise.

Mark McKenzie had a goal ruled out before Barış Alper Yılmaz put Turkey ahead after a clever cut‑back from Eren Elmalı. The USA levelled early in the second half through Sebastian Berhalter’s low strike, and the atmosphere lifted further when Christian Pulisic returned from injury to energise the attack.

Turkey pushed late on and were rewarded when Ayhan pounced from close range. The USA now turn their focus to Bosnia‑Herzegovina in the Round of 32.