United States Finishes First in World Cup Group Despite 3-2 Loss to Türkiye

The United States lost 3-2 to Türkiye on June 25 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, but finished first in its World Cup group after earlier victories over Australia and another opponent. ESPN reported the result. Mauricio Pochettino, the United States coach, told reporters after the match that the focus should remain on the group standing rather than the defeat.

"The questions are a little bit weird," he said, adding that it was "a little bit sad" no one congratulated the team on clinching first place. He stated, "I need to [remind] you and everyone that we won the group. " Pochettino dismissed suggestions that the loss created lost momentum or missed history.

"Making history is winning the World Cup. It's not winning three matches only within the World Cup," he said. He added that winning or losing the final group game would not change his mood and that the team had qualified as No.

1 for the next round. The United States made nine changes to the starting lineup from its June 19 win over Australia. Christian Pulisic entered as a substitute just before the hour mark. " Pochettino cited resting players and keeping key starters free of yellow cards as additional priorities.

The United States will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32.