Turkey vs USA preview: pride on the line in Group D dead rubber

The Group D finale between Turkey and the United States at SoFi Stadium carries little riding on the table. The co-hosts have already clinched top spot on six points with a +5 goal difference, while Turkey's defeats to Australia and Paraguay leave them eliminated on zero. It is, in effect, a rare World Cup dead rubber.

Recent form

The USA arrive on a high after a 4-1 demolition of Paraguay and a composed 2-0 win over Australia that booked their knockout place even without the injured Christian Pulisic. Turkey, by contrast, have flattered to deceive, dominating possession against Australia yet losing 2-0, before Galarza's early strike condemned them to a 1-0 defeat by Paraguay.

What to watch

Expect Mauricio Pochettino to rotate heavily, resting players on yellow cards and easing Pulisic back to fitness for the round of 32. Turkey, led by Arda Guler, will want to salvage pride and end a disappointing campaign on a positive note.

Prediction: With a much-changed American side and Turkey playing for honour, a tight, open contest beckons. A 1-1 draw feels the likeliest outcome, though Guler's quality could yet earn Turkey a consolation win.