The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) released its starting lineup for the FIFA World Cup match against Türkiye. The game is set for June 25, 2026, at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California, starting at 7 p.m. PT.
What happened
The USMNT’s starting eleven against Türkiye includes goalkeeper Matt Turner and is captained by Weston McKennie. Ricardo Pepi and Brenden Aaronson also feature in the lineup, which saw nine changes from the previous match against Australia, marking a record for the team between two World Cup games. McKennie, with 69 caps, emphasized his leadership, stating, ‘This will be my fourth time captaining the team in a World Cup.’ The average age of the lineup is 26 years and 200 days, making it the youngest USMNT squad in the tournament.
Sebastian Berhalter, who will appear in his third World Cup, noted that he has surpassed his father Gregg’s total of two appearances.
Why it matters
The mix of experienced and new players is crucial for the USMNT’s performance in this tournament. Eight players are set to make their first World Cup starts, testing the team’s depth at a key moment. The result of this match will significantly impact the United States’ standing in Group D.
Background
The USMNT previously played Australia on May 20, 2026, using a notably different lineup. That match served as preparation ahead of the critical encounter with Türkiye, prompting strategic considerations from the coaching staff. Several players are returning for their second World Cup appearance after competing in Qatar in 2022, which enhances their confidence and familiarity with the international stage.
What's next
After the Türkiye match, the USMNT’s next game is scheduled for June 29, 2026, against an opponent yet to be determined.
Frequently asked questions
What time is the USMNT match against Türkiye?
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. PT.
Related coverage on CR Today
Sources
- CR Today — FIFA World Cup 2026: All Eyes on USMNT Ahead of Turkey Match (accessed 2026-06-26)
