Türkiye vs USA — World Cup 2026

Tale of the tape.

Three duels that decide it.

// Playmaker duel · Çalhanoğlu's range vs Cardoso's press

H. Çalhanoğlu

#10 · Inter

VS

J. Cardoso

#15 · Atletico Madrid

Çalhanoğlu's ball-carrying range and set-piece mastery give Türkiye's build a tempo advantage, but Cardoso's work rate and positioning will test whether the Inter playmaker can dictate without defensive cover.

// Left winger vs Right back · Yıldız's directness meets Richards' aggression

K. Yıldız

#11 · Juventus

VS

C. Richards

#3 · Crystal Palace

Yıldız's explosive dribbling and low centre of gravity are tailor-made to punish high-pressure defending, and Richards will need to stay compact; the Juventus winger's ability to turn the corner could unlock Türkiye's left flank.

// Striker vs Centre-back · Yılmaz's physicality vs Ream's experience

B. Yılmaz

#9 · Galatasaray

VS

T. Ream

#13 · Charlotte

Yılmaz brings aerial dominance and hold-up play to Türkiye's attack, but the veteran Ream—despite his MLS pedigree—will lean on positioning and set-play sharpness to contain a striker who thrives in transition.

Montella's geometry vs Pochettino's intensity

Türkiye's methodical build and orchestrated wing play clash with the USA's suffocating press and counter-vertical ruthlessness. The key: can Çalhanoğlu's tempo breakers escape Cardoso's harassment before Yıldız and the fullbacks run the American right-back ragged?

Win probability.

Even-money default — ranks not yet on file.

The bench faceoff.

Türkiye · Head coach

V. Montella

USA · Head coach

M. Pochettino

Where to watch.