Loss against Turkey may be valuable for the US towards the 2026 World Cup knockout phase
The United States lost 3-2 to Turkey after national coach Mauricio Pochettino fielded ten new names. The decision attracted criticism, but appeared to be aimed at rest and recovery of key players towards the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup. Whether this was wise will only become clear when the decisive matches start.
Every national coach emphasizes the importance of the knockout phase during the World Cup. However, few trainers are willing to take risks in the group stage. Mauricio Pochettino, elector of the United States, did so. With first place in Group D already in his pocket, he started with ten new names against Turkey. Only Weston McKennie was present in all three group matches. The result: a 3-2 defeat and missing out on a unique group performance for the American team: three victories in three group matches.
We will only know whether this was the right choice during the eighth finals. If America appears slow and disjointed against Bosnia-Herzegovina, this match may be seen as the moment when Pochettino's self-confidence broke. But if the strongest line-up looks fitter and sharper thanks to the extra rest, this defeat can be seen as a strategic investment.
There were clear benefits. Christian Pulisic did not have to rush back from his calf injury; he came on calmly after 58 minutes and immediately brought new danger to the American attacking game. The passing became smoother, the team more threatening. Sebastian Berhalter took his chance as a substitute with a goal and dangerous corners. Auston Trusty was accurate and looked calm until he fell unluckily. Less convincing were Mark McKenzie and Miles Robinson, who struggled against the agile Turkish attack.
The most important result may not have been visible on the scoreboard. Four starters—Richards, Tyler Adams, Folarin Balogun and Antonee Robinson—entered the game with a yellow card. All four reached the next round without suspension and injury. Pochettino's choice seems to prove his worth.
The most important matches are only starting now. Historically, back-to-back group stage wins are rarely remembered—it's about knockout success. Next week it will become clear whether the rest actually makes the difference, now that America is entering the all-decisive phase with fresh star players and a clean slate.
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