Matt Turner helps last-16 bound USA post multiple shutouts at a World Cup for first time in 92 YEARS

Matt Turner has helped the USMNT make history in Qatar as the team posted multiple clean sheets at a World Cup for the first time since 1930 – and the transformation since his college days has been striking.

The milestone comes after the US’s nervous 1-0 victory against Iran on Tuesday, when Iran pressed the Americans, but Turner conceded just one shot on target.

And while Turner wasn’t tested too often in Group B, he responded brilliantly when needed.

Matt Turner put in a strong performance in the group stage, helping the US to two shutouts

Wales and England each registered just three shots on target in a draw against the USA, although Turner made notable saves in attempts by Mason Mount and Ben Davies to avoid surefire goals.

The only goal Turner – and the USMNT backline – conceded was Gareth Bale’s late penalty in the 1-1 draw vs. Wales.

US fans will not be shocked by Turner’s performance in Qatar as he has acquitted himself well in 23 caps, while also making a promising start to his life as Arsenal’s number 2.

But at one point in his career, the now 28-year-old Turner was getting a lot of attention for the wrong reason.

During his time playing for Fairfield University in Connecticut, Turner horribly misjudged an attempt from distance that hit the crossbar, failing to catch the ball in the air and instead bouncing off his chest into the goal.

As the opposing side’s Iona Gaels celebrated the end of the game, Turner fell to the ground in despair.

Matt Turner made no secret of his emotions as the final whistle blew following the US vs. Iran

The mistake even landed him in Sportscenter’s ‘Not Top 10’ segment.

More than nine years since that blunder on Tuesday, Turner was back on his knees as he emphatically claimed victory vs. Iran fourth.

And fans took to Twitter to marvel at his incredible path to the World Cup.

“Such a crazy story, this man’s determination is unreal,” said one said in response to one tweet charting his improbable rise. “So happy for him!”

‘He believed. And that’s all that matters,’ another beamed.

Another fan added‘#totalstud – So glad he didn’t let anyone stop him – total class act!’

Fans recognized Turner’s unique and impressive path after the US defeated Iran on Tuesday

“The scary thing is there are so many other players out there hungry for the chance,” another fan added said. “Thanks to who ever gave him a chance after Fairfield and believed in him.”

With the result, the USMNT is through to the eighth finals and will meet the Netherlands on Saturday.

The United States finished second in Group B, leaving third-placed Iran behind England. Wales finished last with one point.