In what is essentially a friendly match in game week three of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, the already qualified, Group D-topping, USMNT will face the already eliminated, and World Cup “Dark Horses” in Turkey come 10 pm Thursday night in Sofi Stadium. Today I broke down how the USMNT will line up, as they battle minor injuries and yellow card troubles, while wanting to keep the momentum going, as they strive to win three group stage games for the first time in modern-day USMNT history.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lukeballard.substack.com