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The United States Men’s National Team won Group D, but they finished group play on a bit of a dud note. However, former US goalkeeper Brad Guzan doesn’t want fans to sound the alarm.
After the United States conceded a late goal in their 3-2 loss to Turkey, Guzan is still feeling optimistic about the Stars and Stripes ahead of their Round of 16 matchup against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Look, all I was saying is there’s been a lot of talk, a lot of hype over the last couple of games around this U.S. team,” Guzan said. “For all our new American fans. Everyone, calm down. Everyone, take a deep breath.”
According to Guzan, the United States essentially began its backups Thursday evening. Nine of the 11 players in his starting lineup made their first start at the 2026 World Cup, with Matt Turner replacing Matt Freese in net. He also won the battle for possession (52-48), outshot Turkey (18-9) and had more shots on target (7-3). In addition, the United States managed more touches in the opponent’s box (37-24) than Turkey.
Nevertheless, the defeat could have exposed some of the United States’ defensive vulnerabilities. Maurice Edu of FOX Sports rated all four of USA’s starting defenders a 5 or lower as the team conceded two goals early in the first half.
But Thursday’s defeat changed nothing in the United States’ course in the round of 16. They will still face Bosnia and Herzegovina after winning Group D, winning twice in their first two matches by outscoring their opponents by five goals.
That’s why Guzan urged his fans to maintain an overview of the tournament rather than panic over a single unfavorable result, emphasizing that the team’s internal confidence remains fully intact as it prepares for its next knockout opponent.
“We’re fine,” Guzan said. “We are entering the round of 16. This result tonight has not changed anything. We are still at the top of the group, we are still entering this round at one [round of] 32 game against Bosnia with confidence, with conviction, get on board, stay on board and let’s take this thing to the final.
