Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

USMNT vs Turkey arrives at LA Stadium with United States men’s national team already through to the Round of 32 as Group D winners, leaving Mauricio Pochettino with a major selection call.

The Americans beat Paraguay national football team and Australia men’s national football team by a combined 6-1 scoreline to seal top spot before facing Turkey national football team late Thursday. The match matters because Pochettino must choose between protecting key starters and keeping the rhythm that has carried his side into the knockout stage.

For more World Cup player focus, read Kai Havertz Germany Role Grows As World Cup Momentum Builds, while official tournament updates are available through the FIFA World Cup 2026 page.

Yellow Cards Shape Pochettino’s Decision

United States men’s national team have four key players carrying yellow cards: Tyler Adams, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson and Folarin Balogun.

A second caution in group play would suspend any of them for the next match, but single yellow cards are cleared after the group stage. That makes resting them the safer option before the Round of 32.

Christian Pulisic also has little reason to be risked after missing the Australia match with a calf injury.

The forward’s fitness will matter far more in the knockout round than in a match with no effect on Group D. Turkey are already eliminated after defeats to Australia and Paraguay.

Fringe Players Could Get Their Chance

Pochettino still has several field players who have not appeared at this World Cup, including Alejandro Zendejas, Brenden Aaronson, Max Arfsten, Miles Robinson, Mark McKenzie and Christian Roldan.

Haji Wright, Tim Weah, Joe Scally and Auston Trusty have also had limited minutes, making the Turkey match a chance to sharpen the squad without exposing the main starters.

There is also a decision in goal, where Matt Freese could continue or Matt Turner could be used to gain match sharpness.

These are rare World Cup problems for United States men’s national team, who have usually entered final group games still needing a result.