sports

Turner Starts for USMNT in 5-2 Loss to Belgium

Matt Turner returned to the USMNT starting lineup for the first time since June 2025, facing Belgium in a 5-2 friendly loss. Coach Mauricio Pochettino gave the keeper a chance to prove himself.

Turner was named in the starting XI for the first time in 12 matches, replacing Matt Freese. He had been on the bench since June 10, 2025, and was told of his start the day before the game.

The US fell 5-2, but Turner made several saves, including a parry of a long‑range shot by Zeno Debast. Pochettino said he wanted to give Turner an opportunity after Freese had played most of the last year.