USMNT Strikes Early: Trusty Nets Second-Fastest World Cup Goal
The U.S. men’s national team wasted no time finding the back of the net in their crucial group-stage finale against Turkey. Defender Auston Trusty scored his inaugural international goal just three minutes into Thursday night’s contest, converting a corner kick to give the Americans an early 1-0 lead. The goal marks the second-fastest strike from the opening whistle in the team’s World Cup history.
This early advantage propelled the United States closer to a flawless group-stage performance. Heading into the match, the team had secured two victories: a decisive 4-1 win over Paraguay followed by a clean sheet against Australia, where they triumphed 2-0. Star player Christian Pulisic, nursing a left calf injury sustained on June 10, was available to enter the game as a substitute, having started the finale on the bench.
Turkey Responds to U.S. Opener
However, the U.S. lead proved to be brief. Turkey mounted a comeback in the first half. Arda Güler equalized in the 10th minute, and Orkun Kökçü put Turkey ahead 2-1 with a goal in the 31st minute.
Match Details
The match took place on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 10 p.m. ET at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
