Matt Turner’s night didn’t start off on the best note, but the 29-year-old responded in a big way to help the U.S. men’s national team earn a first-ever draw with Brazil.
Turner registered 11 saves on Wednesday as Gregg Berhalter’s side earned a 1-1 result against the No. 5-ranked Brazilians. The USMNT shot-stopper earned SBI Man of the Match honors after denying one of the world’s dynamic attacks on several occasions.
A poor clearance from Turner in the 17th minute allowed Rodrygo to score the opening goal for Brazil, but the Nottingham Forest man didn’t let that hamper his attitude.
Turner excelled in the second half, repelling several Brazil offensive efforts as the match pushed forward. Rodrygo’s flicked effort was punched away by Turner before Endrick’s low drive was also gathered by the USMNT veteran.
Vinicius Junior came closest to winning the match for Brazil in the 87th minute, but his left-footed strike was pushed away by Turner.
Per OptaJack, Turner’s 11 saves were the most by a USMNT goalkeeper since Tim Howard’s 15 against Belgium at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. After a tough showing against Colombia last Saturday, Turner will have plenty to be proud of from his midweek outing in Orlando.
Turner edged out Christian Pulisic, Joe Scally, and Antonee Robinson for Man of the Match honors.
What did you think of Turner’s performance? Do you still see him as the longterm No. 1 goalkeeper for the USMNT?
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