Co-hosts USA will look to make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they face Turkey in Los Angeles, aiming to secure a third consecutive victory in the tournament. Meanwhile, Turkey enter the match already eliminated after two defeats, with only pride left to play for as they try to avoid ending their campaign with three straight losses.

Turkey’s World Cup journey has been disappointing so far. Despite producing 62 shots across their opening two matches against Australia and Paraguay, Vincenzo Montella’s side have failed to find the net. The Crescent Stars must rediscover their attacking confidence if they want to end the tournament on a positive note.

A key factor for Turkey will be scoring first. The team that has opened the scoring in each of their last seven World Cup matches has gone on to win, making an early breakthrough crucial for Montella’s side.

USA Chasing More History

The United States have enjoyed an impressive start to the tournament, defeating Paraguay and Australia to secure qualification for the last 32. A win against Turkey would see them achieve something they have never done before at a World Cup — winning three consecutive matches.

Mauricio Pochettino’s influence is becoming clear, with USA showing attacking improvement and confidence in front of goal. The Americans have scored at least two goals in seven of their last nine international matches, highlighting their growing attacking threat.

However, with qualification already secured, Pochettino may choose to rotate his squad, giving opportunities to other players.

Head-to-Head Record

The history between these two nations is perfectly balanced. Turkey and USA have met five times, with both teams winning twice and one match ending in a draw. Each side has scored seven goals across those encounters.

Interestingly, every match that produced a winner ended with the same scoreline — 2-1.

Key Stats and Trends

• Turkey have scored in only one of their last six matches.
• Turkey have won eight or more corners in five of their last six internationals.
• USA have conceded no more than one goal in each of their last six World Cup group-stage matches.
• USA’s last nine internationals have featured at least one team scoring two or more goals.

Players to Watch

Kenan Yıldız has been Turkey’s biggest attacking threat at this World Cup, leading the team with 12 shots and recording at least two attempts in seven of his last eight international appearances.

For USA, Malik Tillman has been in excellent form, contributing seven goals or assists in his last 13 caps, including an assist in the opening World Cup match against Paraguay.

Turkey are expected to make several changes, while USA could be without star player Christian Pulisic due to a calf issue.

Betting Prediction

With both teams likely to rotate their line-ups, USA may not approach the game with the same intensity despite their strong start. Turkey, meanwhile, will be desperate to leave the tournament with a positive result.

A closely contested match could be on the cards, and a draw looks like a sensible prediction as both sides balance ambition with squad management.

Prediction: USA 1-1 Turkey