In a pulsating World Cup Group D encounter, the USA fell 3-2 to Turkey, despite a standout performance from Sebastian Berhalter. The match highlighted both the promise and the defensive frailties of Mauricio Pochettino's side, as they now look ahead to a knockout stage clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Goalkeeper and Defenders
Matt Turner (4/10): In a surprise start, Turner failed to stop any of the three shots he faced, doing little to boost his case over Matt Freese. He did make a couple of timely sweeper actions and joined a select group of US goalkeepers to start in multiple World Cups.
Joe Scally (5/10): More conservative than alternatives like Sergiño Dest and Alex Freeman, Scally struggled to keep pace at times. He was pulled out of position twice on Turkey's second goal and had difficulty placing crosses into dangerous areas.
Mark McKenzie (5/10): Bypassed too easily for Turkey's first goal and struggled with long distribution. He had a potential poacher's finish ruled offside but did well to funnel play into midfield, although full-bears bore more progression responsibility.
Miles Robinson (5/10): Looked unready when the ball neared his area early on but settled after nerves subsided. He led the team in phases lost, per Futi, due to passing and indecision on the ball.
Auston Trusty (7/10): Miscast as a wingback but excelled by heading home the opening goal from a corner. He provided passing outlets and tracked back to limit Turkey's right-side attacks, but exited with an apparent left ankle injury.
Midfielders and Forwards
Sebastian Berhalter (8/10): Despite some defensive lapses, Berhalter shone with set-piece prowess. He assisted Trusty's opener and scored a fine goal, adding to his catalogue of finishes from the edge of the area. He was the team's most progressive passer.
Weston McKennie (7/10): Donning the armband with Cristian Roldan injured, McKennie provided energy when the game got tough. He managed a few shots, but only one was on target.
Gio Reyna (5/10): Moving frequently to offer passing options, Reyna often recirculated rather than breaking lines. He had the second-most box entry passes on his team, trailing Berhalter.
Tim Weah (5/10): Shifted to his weaker side, Weah struggled with errant passes, sloppy touches, and ineffective dribbles.
Brenden Aaronson (5/10): In his first World Cup start, Aaronson showed industry on the right but missed an unobstructed chance at an open net.
Ricardo Pepi (5/10): Dragged Turkey's center-backs deeper but struggled for touches in the box, with his only shot flying off-target.
Substitutes
Christian Pulisic (6/10): Entered sooner than expected, prompting Turkey to retreat. He showed few signs of rust, nearly scoring from distance in the 77th minute.
Alex Freeman (5/10): Caught out of position on the late match-winner.
Sergiño Dest (6/10): Pinned Turkey back by checking in but had little involvement.
Alejandro Zendejas (6/10): A long-awaited World Cup debut with little action as both teams seemed ready for a draw.
Malik Tillman (6/10): Received applause upon entering; surprisingly not brought on sooner.
