Gregg Berhalter on Matt Turner: “Really proud of Matt for what he has done this whole camp”

Matt Turner had his dreams come soon on Sunday night. He got his first start for the United States Men’s National Team.

It might not have been a busy night for Turner but when the team needed him, the New England Revolution goalkeeper showed up.

In the first half, Turner didn't even need to make a save. The most important stat was his 11 touches and 100 percent pass accuracy. Turner’s ability with the ball at his feet was mentioned by Gregg Berhalter prior to the game as something that Turner would need to continue to work on.

But in the 2nd half, Turner would get his first test. In the 64th minute, a penalty was committed in the box by Andrés Perea and a penalty kick was given. Turner would need to make a stop to preserve his shutout.

As fans of the Revs are well aware, Turner stopped a Nani penalty kick down in Orlando in the 2020 MLS Cup Playoffs. It’s safe to say that they knew what was coming next.

Turner indeed made the save and was fired up afterward. All of New England likely jumped for joy.

After the game, Berhalter was asked about Turner’s performance and was pleased with the goalkeeper’s debut.

“I think he did a great job,” the USMNT coach said. “There was times when he was under pressure. It was great that guys were opening up and Matt made the right decision every single time. That’s all you can ask for. I think he did an excellent job not only with his feet but making the penalty save was an amazing moment in the game. Really proud of Matt for what he has done this whole camp.”

One of the stars on the attacking side of the game was Jesús Ferreira. He was named Man of the Match after scoring two goals and notching three assists. It was an amazing night for the 20-year-old who currently plays at FC Dallas.

Ferreira was asked about his reaction to the save after the game.

“We all know that Matt Turner had a long way to get here,” Ferreira said. “Hard work you know it pays off and for him to have a game like today, a clean sheet, and to save a PK, it’s an amazing feeling and we were all happy for him.”

Sunday was an amazing night for Turner and all the New England Revolution fans watching at home. Fans will be hoping that the goalkeeper gets more love at the international level now that he has the first start under his belt.