Team: Turkiye

Türkiye return to the World Cup for the first time since their historic third place finish in 2002, when they announced themselves as a genuine force in world football. The current squad is built around a generation of players who have succeeded at top European clubs, led by Hakan Calhanoglu, who orchestrates play from midfield with intelligence and range. Competing in Group D alongside the United States, Paraguay, and Australia makes for one of the most competitive groups in the draw.

The large Turkish community across North America will provide vocal and passionate support. Türkiye have the quality to cause problems for any opponent they face. Türkiye are back in the World Cup for the first time since 2002 after Kerem Akturkoglu sealed a narrow victory over Kosovo in the UEFA playoffs. After finishing second to Spain in qualifying, Vincenzo Montella secured the Turks' emotional return with victories over Romania and Kosovo.