World Cup 2026: When topping the group poses a difficult challenge

According to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in the US, after two wins over Paraguay and Australia, the US team has already achieved their goal of advancing past the group stage while also securing top position in Group D. Therefore, the match against Turkey no longer matters for standings, but it has become an important test of the depth of the squad for the 2026 World Cup hosts. In this context, Coach Mauricio Pochettino faces a strategic decision. On one hand, he wants to maintain stability and a positive playing rhythm for the entire team. On the other hand, rotation is almost inevitable as the knockout stage approaches, where any mistake could be costly.

Pressure mounts as several key US players are at risk of suspension. Four important names – Tyler Adams, Folarin Balogun, Chris Richards, and Antonee Robinson – have each received one yellow card. If they receive another caution in the match against Turkey, they would miss the Round of 32 – a risk the coaching staff cannot ignore. Therefore, the possibility of rotating the lineup is clearly on the table. Players who have seen less action, such as Cristian Roldan, Mark McKenzie, or Max Arfsten, may be given playing time. Meanwhile, forward Ricardo Pepi is likely to start as the center forward.

A special case is Christian Pulisic. The AC Milan star had to miss the Australia match due to a calf muscle injury. Although bringing him back to regain match fitness is being considered, the coaching staff is well aware of the significant risk of reinjury, especially with the knockout rounds looming.

In other positions, several key players like Weston McKennie, Malik Tillman, and Sergiño Dest may be rested, making way for names such as Brenden Aaronson, Gio Reyna, Tim Weah, or Alejandro Zendejas – players capable of making an impact from the bench who need more time to showcase their abilities.

Whether rotating or keeping the lineup unchanged, the morale within the US team remains very high. According to midfielder Tyler Adams, the team's cohesion is the key factor helping them maintain consistent performance, regardless of personnel changes from match to match.

In the eyes of experts, the problem for Coach Pochettino now is not 'whether to beat Turkey or not,' but rather how to sustain the winning streak while preserving the squad for the crucial matches ahead.