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Jun 26, 2026

USMNT vs. Turkiye: Confirmed Lineups for World Cup Group D Final Match

USMNT vs. Turkiye: Confirmed Lineups for World Cup Group D Final Match

The U.S. men’s national team has already won the group, and Türkiye has already been eliminated.Sophia Vesely|
Mauricio Pochettino changed up his lineup on Thursday night.
Mauricio Pochettino changed up his lineup on Thursday night. | John Todd/ISI Photos/Getty Images

In proper soccer lingo, Thursday’s clash between the U.S. men’s national team and Türkiye, their final Group D match, is a “dead rubber.” It holds no significance for the tournament standings.

The Stars and Stripes already secured the top spot in the group with dominant victories over Paraguay and Australia, promising a deep run in the World Cup this summer or, at the very least, plenty more excitement. They will be feeling cool, calm and collected heading into SoFi Stadium, perhaps a rare headspace to be in at the world’s most prestigious soccer competition.

Türkiye, on the other hand, will be feeling equal parts utter dejection and desperation. The Crescent-Stars—once included in conversations to win out the group stage—will be eager to walk away with at least one point on the board, a consolation prize to tuck into the side-pocket of their baggage before flying home.

While the USMNT makes nine changes to the starting lineup, in an effort to prevent yellow card suspension and over-fatigued legs, Türkiye will continue to lean on its star power, such Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız.

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Christian Pulisic on the Bench

Christian Pulisic looking downtrodden.
Christian Pulisic was forced off early for the USMNT against Paraguay. | Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/Getty Images

U.S. Soccer poster player Christian Pulisic will not make his return to the starting lineup on Thursday, likely in an effort to continue his recovery; however, the star winger is rostered for the match and could make a second half appearance.

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