Thursday, October 1, 2026
Despite the gloomy weather, hundreds of soccer fans turned up at the Olympia-Lacey Fan Zone to watch Team USA take on Türkiye in their final group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Unfortunately, Team USA lost when Türkiye substitute Kaan Ayhan scored during a scramble in front of the goal to give his squad a 3-2 victory in the final minute of play.
Going into last night’s match, Team USA rested some key players since they had already qualified for the round of 32 after beating Australia 2-0 in Seattle on June 19.
Furthermore, Team USA previously clinched the top spot in their group after Paraguay beat Türkiye 1-0 on June 19.
Local soccer fans took the loss in stride on June 25.
“I think the team is probably just looking to get players to have some fitness and be prepared for challenges later in the tournament. The result didn't matter, but keeping players sharp mattered,” said soccer fan Scott Hancock.
Team USA (2-1) will move on to play Bosnia-Herzegovina (1-1-1) in the round of 32 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Wednesday, July 1. The match is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. (PDT) with FOX broadcasting the match live.
Regardless of last night’s result, spectators enjoyed watching the match on a pair of large LED screens attached to the viewing tower at Port Plaza at Port of Olympia.
“I’m happy to see people out enjoying sports and having fun together chit-chating. It’s really fun having a big community event,” said spectator Samantha Laurie.
3 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
Wesley
It's Turkey.
Friday, June 26 Report this
Callie
Thank you for spelling Türkiye as preferred. As Miss Manners said to the question of Grandma vs Gramma va Nona, etc. - call her what she WANTS to be called.
Saturday, June 27 Report this
Boatyarddog
Even less attended Friday's show.
I was over at WB Park saw maybe 50.
Really a bust id say..... But We Knew it would be.
It rained a little not much.
Saturday, June 27 Report this