The U.S. Men’s National Team opened their June friendlies with a 2-1 loss to Türkiye in East Hartford, Connecticut, despite an electric start and a strong local turnout. Jack McGlynn put the U.S. ahead in the very first minute, curling in a left-footed shot after a setup from Malik Tillman. The early goal energized the crowd of over 34,000 and marked McGlynn’s second international tally..
Türkiye responded quickly, capitalizing on defensive lapses. Arda Güler equalized in the 24th minute when a clearance deflected off him and into the net. Just three minutes later, Kerem Aktürkoğlu finished from close range after a scramble in the U.S. box, giving Türkiye a lead they would not relinquish.
The U.S. team, featuring four players making their senior debuts, pushed for an equalizer in the second half. Patrick Agyemang, playing in his hometown, earned his fifth cap and made his third start, but despite several dangerous crosses and a late header from Tillman, the Americans couldn’t break through Türkiye’s defense.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino’s youthful squad showed flashes of promise and resilience but ultimately lacked the finishing touch. The USMNT’s next test comes against Switzerland in Nashville as they continue to build toward the Concacaf Gold Cup..
