USMNT Lose to Turkiye in Friendly, Disappoint Fans Ahead of 2025 Gold Cup

The United States men’s national team couldn’t maintain an early lead over Türkiye in a friendly at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in Connecticut, falling by the final score of 2-1.

It was a disappointing result for a USMNT squad looking to build momentum entering the CONCACAF Gold Cup, as Saturday’s match was the first of two friendlies for the United States prior to the tournament.

Fans weren’t satisfied with the performance from head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s team.

Pochettino became the first USMNT coach to lose three straight matches since 2015.

It’s worth noting that the United States was without standouts such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna and Tim Weah on Saturday.

Still, the shorthanded U.S. squad wasn’t able to meet expectations.

It initially appeared as though the USMNT would cruise to a victory, as the team’s lone goal occurred just one minute into the match. Jack McGlynn rushed into the attacking third before shooting with his left foot from outside the box, finding the back of the net.

In the 24th minute, U.S. midfielder Johnny Cardoso attempted a pass from deep inside the box that was deflected into the goal by Arda Güler to tie the score 1-1.

Türkiye jumped out in front less than three minutes later, as Kerem Aktürkoğlu finished a loose ball that was first put in play by Güler.

The United States couldn’t capitalize on multiple opportunities in the second half, as both teams were scoreless over the final 45 minutes.

The USMNT held 59.2 percent of possession throughout the match but only mustered three shots on goal compared to five for Türkiye. The U.S. also racked up 14 fouls.

With the Gold Cup beginning on June 14, the USMNT will look to improve following Saturday’s result.