U.S. men suffer first 2026 World Cup loss to Turkey before knockout round

The U.S. men's soccer team experienced a surprising setback ahead of the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, losing their first match against Turkey. Despite already securing a spot in the Round of 32 with a win over Australia, this defeat underscores the unpredictable nature of international soccer. This loss could serve as a wake-up call for the team to tighten their game strategy and focus more intensely as they push for a strong performance in the knockout rounds. It's a reminder that even teams with a secure spot can't afford to underestimate their opponents.