SBI USMNT Man of the Match: Sebastian Berhalter

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Sebastian Berhalter delivered his best performance in a U.S. Men’s National Team shirt on Thursday night in Los Angeles. Berhalter set up the USMNT’s opening goal before delivering his first-career FIFA World Cup goal in Thursday’s 3-2 loss to Turkey in both teams’ group stage finale. The Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder earned SBI USMNT Man of the Match honors for his productive 90-minute shift. Auston Trusty propelled the USMNT in front after six minutes, finishing off Berhalter’s corner kick at the back post for a 1-0 lead. Berhalter swung a cross past everybody in the Turkey box but Trusty was left wide open to gather the cross and tuck it away. Turkey would rally before halftime to grab a 2-1 lead thanks to goals from Arda Guler and Orkun Kökcü.The USMNT wouldn’t lie down though as Berhalter stepped up to help the American tie things up. Berhalter’s half-volley from the top of the Turkey box nestled into the back of the net for his first-career World Cup goal. A frantic period in the Turkey box eventually saw a loose ball bounce to Berhalter before the 25-year-old delivered a missile past Çakir.Turkey would use a 98th-minute winner from Kaan Ayhan to capture all three points, ending their disappointing overall tournament on a slight positive note. Berhalter finished the match with five chances created, seven duels won, and four fouls drawn. He edged Auston Trusty and Weston McKennie for Man of the Match honors.What did you think of Berhalter’s performance? Do you see him starting again in the Round of 32? What do you think his role in the squad is?Share your thoughts below.