USA Team Training Base (Irvine, California) — On paper, the United States would have nothing to gain in the final game of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. But anyone listening to the locker room realizes otherwise. Mauricio Pochettino's team won the first two games — something unheard of 96 years ago —, already qualifying for the Round of '32 and securing 1st place in Group D. Still, the watchword is clear: beat Turkey.
On the eve of the duel, Pochettino confirmed changes to the eleven, namely the management of starters at risk of suspension for accumulating yellow cards. The objective is to avoid punishments in the next round, but without slowing down: the substitutes will enter with a decisive game mentality.
"Everyone will be called up at different times and in different roles. Being prepared is the most important thing for each one", highlighted central Mark McKenzie, one of eight of the 26 called up who have not yet played minutes in the tournament. Alex Zendejas, also about to make his debut, reinforced the idea: “I've been training hard, waiting for the opportunity — it's the coach's decision”.
The main doubt concerns Christian Pulisic. The striker missed the game against Australia due to a calf injury, but assured that he could start the match if it was an option. Still, everything points to prudence on the part of the selector. Next up is the knockout stage, on July 1, in Santa Clara (California), possibly against Bosnia and Herzegovina — the team that eliminated four-time champion Italy in March, in the European play-offs.
Max Arfsten should replace Antonee “Jedi” Robinson on the left side of defense, after the usual starter was shown yellow against the Socceroos. Internal competitiveness remains high: "Two wins keep the energy up and three would be even better. Regardless of whether we are already through, the training sessions remain intense. It's the culture created by the coach: everyone has something to prove", pointed out Arfsten.
At the press conference, Pochettino was adamant: whoever plays at the Los Angeles Stadium will have to do so “as if it were the World Cup final”. The message also came from the group. “I think these guys deserve it, if they get the chance,” said defender Chris Richards, also at risk for a yellow card. Pulisic agreed: "We will support everyone in the same way, whatever the decision. We will be ready — it shows the depth and strength of this team."
Nobody sees this game as “pro forma”. It is the biggest stage in world sport. "It's a World Cup. If this doesn't excite you, I don't know what will," concluded Richards. And Pochettino set the objective bluntly: "We need to win. I have no doubt that the team that takes to the field will respond."