World Cup 2026: Which team should the United States face against Turkey in the group stage?

With their place in the knockout phase assured and a first place conquered, the American national team presents itself against Turkey without pressure at the 2026 World Cup. On the other hand, faced with Turks already eliminated, Mauricio Pochettino must pay particular attention to the choice of his starting eleven, in particular to spare certain players for the rounds to come.

Among the important elements, four starters in the first two matches received a yellow card: Tyler Adams, Chris Richards, Antonee "Jedi" Robinson, and Folarin Balogun. To avoid any suspension at the time of the round of 16, they should be invited to watch this match from the bench.

The Argentinian coach's tactics have matured over the last year with a hinge often made up of Tim Ream, Alex Freeman, and Chris Richards. For this low-stakes match, a greater rotation seems likely, with a 3-4-3 organization maintained in order to simplify the instructions and adapt to the available players.

Uncertainty hangs over the state of health of Cristian Roldan, while Adams will be preserved. Sebastian Berhalter, a true midfield man for the USA, is called upon to start to bring his experience and tactical rigor despite a reshuffled composition.

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In defense, the presence of Max Arfsten at left-back makes sense due to the unavailability of Antonee Robinson. Joe Scally could also be aligned on the right flank, providing a fresh solution in the corridor. Auston Trusty, used to central defense, is cited to replace Chris Richards.

On the offensive front, Ricardo Pepi is shaping up to play at the forefront, capable of carrying the danger alone, with his 19 goals with PSV Eindhoven this season. As for Christian Pulisic, he is eagerly awaited to possibly enter the game in order to judge his state of form after a few physical glitches.

Giovanni Reyna, who started 2026 in a friendly match against Senegal, playing more of an offensive replacement role, could get playing time again in order to keep his rhythm in a demanding role, particularly defensively. Brenden Aaronson and Haji Wright are also supporting offensive options.

Finally, Cristian Roldan, despite a difficult week physically, could make an appearance at the end of the match, enjoying great esteem within the group.

Turkey, despite being eliminated, should provide strong opposition, looking to leave with honor. This meeting will therefore be both a tactical test for Pochettino and an opportunity for certain players to show themselves before the start of the knockout phase.