US: US defender Richards says Türkiye's early exit came as surprise ahead of World Cup match.

SHOTLIST LOS ANGELES, US (JUNE 24, 2026) 1. CHRIS RICHARDS SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT GREAT PARK SPORTS COMPLEXLOS ANGELES, US - JUNE 24: US defender Chris Richards said in Los Angeles on Wednesday, June 24, that the United States had not expected Türkiye to be eliminated so early ahead of the sides' final FIFA World Cup Group D match. Speaking at the Great Park Sports Complex, Richards described Türkiye as a team with a strong football tradition and quality players. Richards said the United States would not underestimate Türkiye, adding that he expected the visitors to fight for all three points despite already being out of contention. The United States will face Türkiye at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 25, in the teams' final Group D match.