Türkiye ended their FIFA World Cup campaign with a measure of redemption on Friday, as Kaan Ayhan struck with virtually the final kick of the match to seal a thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts the United States, handing Vincenzo Montella's side their first and only win of the tournament.
Already eliminated after narrow defeats to Australia and Paraguay despite dominating long stretches of both matches, Türkiye finally found the cutting edge that had eluded them throughout the group stage. Ayhan's dramatic winner, deep into the eighth minute of second-half stoppage time, ensured the Crescent-Stars left the tournament with three points and something positive to build on.
The result had no bearing on qualification. The United States had already secured top spot in Group D with victories over Paraguay and Australia and will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 on July 1 in Santa Clara, California. Still, the entertaining contest delivered five goals, end-to-end action and a dramatic finale before a packed crowd in Southern California.
The Americans, heavily rotated by coach Mauricio Pochettino, struck almost immediately.
Auston Trusty needed just three minutes to open the scoring, meeting Sebastian Berhalter's inswinging corner with a first-time finish at the near post for his first international goal in his 10th appearance.
