USA falls behind to Turkey as injuries and defensive changes trouble USMNT

The United States men's national team fell behind to Turkey in the first half of their group match, with Turkey scoring two goals from four shots. The U.S. defense, reshuffled by coach Mauricio Pochettino, struggled to contain the Turkish attack, and goalkeeper Matt Turner was unable to prevent the goals.

Midway through the first half, defender Auston Trusty collapsed clutching his right hamstring after a challenge and required treatment, leaving the U.S. without a substitute.

Turkey's Barış Alper Yılmaz created several chances, including a missed shot after losing balance following the contact with Trusty. Later, Kenan Yıldız struck a powerful effort that went wide, preserving the United States' draw for the moment.

U.S. forward Christian Pulisic generated multiple opportunities, with one shot saved by Turkish goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır, who later suffered a hard fall on his right arm but returned to defend a corner.

The match marked a sharp contrast to Turkey's earlier tournament performance, where they had taken 62 shots without scoring in their first two games. Their efficiency improved dramatically, scoring two goals from just four attempts.

Pochettino's lineup changes saw Auston Trusty and Joe Scally start at outside back, with Mark McKenzie and Miles Robinson in central defense, and Matt Turner in goal. The adjustments have not produced the defensive stability the United States sought, and further substitutions are expected after halftime.