Turkey vs USA: Five key battles to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026

USA are already qualified for the Round of 32 of 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Los Angeles Stadium on June 26th will host an exciting fixture between Türkiye and the USA. Türkiye started their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-0 loss against Australia. They followed that up with another disappointing display against Paraguay, where they Türkiye lost 1-0. They are officially knocked out from World Cup already.

The USA, on the other hand, had an incredible opening to the tournament. They scored four goals past Paraguay and emerged 4-1 victors in their first game. They secured a 2-0 win against possible their toughest competitors in Group D, Australia. They are going into the knockout stages as group winners.

With their pride on the line, Türkiye will look to end their campaign on a good note.However, the USA will look to gain momentum and put on another impressive display in front of their fans.

5. Ferdi Kadıoğlu vs Sergiño Dest

FC Barcelona’s ex-player Sergiño Dest is one of the best players the USA have among their ranks. He is an offensive-minded player and has been operating as a right wing back in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He is technical, quick, and possesses good reading of the game. Ferdi Kadıoğlu will find it difficult to contain him. However, the Turkish international is mainly on defensive duties for the national team and is difficult to beat in one-on-one situations.

4. Kenan Yıldız vs Alexander Freeman

Türkiye’s talented left winger is one of the best young players in the world right now. He had a breakout 2025/26 season with Juventus in Serie A. He is an elite dribbler, along with possessing a wide passing range. He also positions himself well during attacking and defensive sequences.Yıldız will collide with the USA’s Alexander Freeman, who is arguably their best defender. He is a solid presence at the back, but also joins the attack when required. He has already registered a goal and an assist in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

3. Abdülkerim Bardakcı vs Folarin Balogun

The American striker had a memorable 2025/26 campaign with AS Monaco as he registered 19 goals and five assists across all competitions. Despite his team having a disappointing campaign, Balogun was excellent on an individual level. He brought that same form to the World Cup, and he already has two goals to his name. Abdülkerim Bardakcı, on the other hand, had a successful season with Galatasaray and has flourished in this World Cup despite his nation’s disappointing defensive display.

2. Hakan Çalhanoğlu vs Malik Tillman

Hakan Çalhanoğlu won the Serie A with Inter Milan in the 2025/26 season and has established himself as one of the most consistent performers in his position over the last few years. He is versatile and can play offensive and defensive roles effectively. He also has an eye for the goal and can score some screamers from long range. His matchup against the USA’s Malik Tillman will be a must-watch as the American international is known for his playmaking and high pressing.

1. Arda Güler vs Auston Trusty

Arda Güler is one of the most prominent Turkish talents in the world right now. Despite Real Madrid going trophyless, Arda Güler had an impressive season on a personal level. His brace against Bayern Munich during the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Quarter-finals was one of his season highlights. He has performed decently well at his first World Cup as well. He’ll be facing off against Auston Trusty frequently in this game, who masterfully displayed his solid defensive qualities against Australia.