With qualification for the knockout stage already confirmed, the United States Men’s National Team now face a final group encounter with a determined yet struggling Turkiye side.

The upcoming fixture presents a range of considerations for the U.S., but one key concern has already been eliminated — they have secured top spot in the group and can now look forward to the knockout rounds, a reward earned through their commanding performances in the opening two matches.

This scenario provides Mauricio Pochettino with a different kind of challenge: how seriously should his team approach this match?

The answer, according to the manager, is to be serious while remaining strategic. With the group already won, Pochettino has the flexibility to rotate his squad, balancing the need for rest with the desire to maintain rhythm. Regardless of the stakes, Pochettino is keen to preserve winning momentum — for his players, for team confidence, and for a growing American fan base that has begun to believe in this squad’s potential.

“My answer is to ensure that the team stepping out there tomorrow wants to eat the grass here at SoFi Stadium and play as if it were the World Cup final,” Pochettino said on Thursday. “You ask, ‘how’? We need to find the way to arrive tomorrow and give the team the best tools to go and compete.”

Here are five key factors that may shape the USMNT’s clash with Turkiye.

The Yellow Card Situation

Heading into the match, four American players face suspension risk due to yellow card accumulation — and they happen to be among the side’s most vital figures.

Tyler Adams anchors the midfield, Chris Richards leads in central defence, Antonee Robinson provides relentless energy on the left flank, and Folarin Balogun has been the breakout star of the summer. Each already has one booking, and another caution would rule them out of the Round of 32.

“Obviously, I want to play every game, ideally every minute, but I know some things are beyond my control,” Richards said on Thursday. “I’m not sure what the lineup will look like, but if I am playing, I’ll do my very best to avoid a yellow card. Ultimately, I don’t know if he’ll risk us guys who are on a yellow, so yeah, it’s a tough situation.”

In truth, it seems a simple decision — all four players are nearly irreplaceable, and risking them would be unwise. Consequently, a heavily rotated starting XI is expected, likely featuring at least four enforced changes.

“I think it’s an easy answer for those on yellow cards,” said Pochettino. “It’s unnecessary to risk another yellow and lose them for the next stage. So, the normal and simple answer is not to play them from the start.”

Freese to Stay in Goal?

Rotation appears likely across the pitch, but one lingering question remains — should Matt Freese continue as the starting goalkeeper?

Freese’s rise began, coincidentally, against Turkiye last summer. A year later, he has earned 17 caps, including two in this tournament. Though he has gained valuable experience, he remains relatively new at the international level.

There are arguments for giving others a turn. Matt Turner has been reliable in MLS and deserves recognition, while Chris Brady, the only goalkeeper in camp yet to feature at a World Cup, would cherish the opportunity to make his debut.

However, this match may not be the time for sentimental decisions. If Pochettino believes continuing with Freese will better prepare him for the knockout stage, the NYCFC shot-stopper could make his third consecutive World Cup start.

“It’s the coach’s decision,” Freese said this week. “We’ve got 26 players who all want to play and are training hard every day. We trust every one of us, and our focus is to keep preparing, work hard, and be ready for whatever comes.”

What’s Going On with Turkiye?

Turkiye’s struggles this summer are reflected in one striking statistic. Across their first two games, they registered 62 shots — more than any other team at the World Cup — with 13 on target, yet none resulting in a goal. That drought explains their early elimination.

Turkiye clearly possess talent. With creative forces like Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz, they have no shortage of attacking potential but have failed to convert chances. Thursday provides them one last opportunity to show their true quality.

Much depends on their mindset — will they play with pride to end on a high note, or succumb to disappointment after an early exit?

“It’s a World Cup match,” Pochettino observed. “When you defend your jersey, your flag, your culture, it’s always about pride. I have no doubt the Turkish team will be competitive tomorrow. They have good players. They may be eliminated, but it will still be a tough game. We’re not expecting it to be easy.”

Ultimately, it may be Turkiye who dictate the game’s tone — whether it’s a lively, physical contest or a subdued affair. Their approach will set the rhythm.

The Chance-Creators

Yildiz and Guler have been bright sparks despite Turkiye’s poor results. Both are among the most promising young midfielders globally, already demonstrating world-class potential as creative attacking players.

The U.S. also boasts talent in similar roles. With Christian Pulisic nursing an injury and unlikely to feature, and Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman possibly due for rest after two intense outings, others are expected to step up. Sergino Dest has excelled in a more advanced position, troubling defenders throughout the tournament.

Gio Reyna, Alex Zendejas, and Brenden Aaronson could all feature centrally as creative playmakers, while Tim Weah may return to the starting lineup as a winger.

Breaking down Turkiye will not be straightforward. They have conceded three goals, all largely against the run of play. It will be intriguing to see how the U.S. construct their attack, regardless of personnel.

“We need to perform tomorrow,” Pochettino said. “We must perform, and I have no doubt the team that plays will perform.”

Christian and Cristian

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Christian Pulisic confirmed his availability if called upon after missing the Australia match. Pochettino did not rule out his participation.

“Christian Pulisic is in communication with the medical team,” said Pochettino. “He is available, and we will decide whether he starts or stays on the bench to possibly play in the second half.”

The only other injury concern is Cristian Roldan, who remains day-to-day. If fit, he could feature in midfield, though he has yet to resume full training.

“Cristian Roldan will be assessed tomorrow,” Pochettino said. “It’s a small quad issue, but he’s recovering well. If not tomorrow, hopefully he’ll be ready next week.”