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USMNT weighs rotation vs. Turkey in dead‑rubber group game

ESPN Soccer •
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The United States entered its final group match already atop Group D after two wins. Facing already‑eliminated Turkey, the result cannot alter the knockout draw. Coach Mauricio Pochettino stressed maintaining the momentum that carried the team through the opening games, insisting the squad stay “in good condition” for the round of 32. The stadium atmosphere remained electric as fans celebrated the early success.

Four regulars sit on yellow cards—Tyler Adams, Folarin Balogun, Chris Richards and Antonee Robinson—so another caution would bench them for July 1 knockout. Pochettino can afford to field fringe players like Cristian Roldan, Mark McKenzie and Max Arfsten, while keeping Ricardo Pepi as the lone striker. The move protects lineup depth and avoids a suspension risk. Adams said the depth lets others step up when needed.

Pulisic remains sidelined with a calf strain, and Pochettino plans to keep him out of the Turkey game to preserve fitness for the knockout round. Goalkeeper Matt Freese, who started the first two matches, could earn more minutes, while veterans Tim Ream and Sergiño Dest likely sit. Rotating now gives a rested core and a bench ready to impact later stages.