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USMNT Rotate Key Players as Pulisic Nears Return and Türkiye’s Coach Defends Winless Side

With group positions settled, the United States is managing yellow cards and injuries to protect its knockout‑round prospects.

Overview

  • The United States clinched first place in Group D and will play Türkiye in a final group match on Thursday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
  • Coach Mauricio Pochettino said he will rest the four U.S. players carrying yellow cards—Folarin Balogun, Tyler Adams, Chris Richards and Antonee Robinson—to avoid suspensions for the Round of 32.
  • Christian Pulisic has declared himself fit and is available for limited minutes, while Cristian Roldan’s participation is uncertain as he is being assessed for a training quad issue.
  • Türkiye was eliminated after two scoreless losses and has not scored so far; coach Vincenzo Montella publicly defended his players and said he will remain in charge despite criticism.
  • Pochettino says the rotation balances keeping momentum with preserving player availability for the knockout match next week and reflects FIFA rules that a second yellow in group play can carry a suspension into the next stage.