Turkey triumphed over the United States with a 2-1 victory in a rain-soaked friendly match on Saturday, capitalizing on the Americans’ defensive lapses to secure their win. Alda Golar and Kelem Akturkoglu each netted goals within a mere 20 seconds during the first half, marking another disappointing loss for the US team.
Jack McGlyn opened the scoring just 59 seconds into the match for the US, which was missing several key players as manager Mauricio Pochettino reshuffled the lineup after a disappointing performance in the Concacaf Nations League Final in March. As the US prepares to co-host the World Cup next year, they will face Switzerland in Nashville on Tuesday, followed by a friendly against Trinidad and Tobago on June 15.
Under Pochettino, the Americans have struggled, having lost two consecutive matches this year, including a 5-4 defeat. After parting ways with manager Greg Barhalter post-Copa America, Pochettino made significant changes, starting eight new players against Canada following their Nations League loss, with only Max Alfsten, winger Diegorna, and forward Patrick Aggieman remaining in the lineup.
Defender Alex Freeman, son of former NFL star Antonio Freeman, made his debut for the US squad, while Matt Freeze, who plays for New York City FC, also saw his first match action. Regular starting goalkeeper Matt Turner has not played at Crystal Palace since March 1.
McGlyn’s goal came from a well-placed pass by Malik Tillman, where he deftly maneuvered in and launched a curled shot from outside the area, marking his second goal in five international outings. This was the quickest goal for the US since Shaq Moore scored in just 20 seconds against Canada during the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Turkey equalized in the 24th minute when Freeze mishandled a ball from Johnny Caldosso. Moments later, in the 27th minute, Miles Robinson’s attempt to clear Oyze Aydin’s shot resulted in the ball falling to Akturkoglu for Turkey’s second goal. Turkish goalkeeper Burke Ozer made his international debut amidst preparations for the upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign, with Turkey boasting a record of six wins, one loss, and one draw in their last eight matches.
Report by Associated Press.
For soccer fans, this match underscores the ongoing struggles of the US team as they reshape under new management. The upcoming matches will be crucial for building momentum and addressing weaknesses ahead of the World Cup.
