Looking Back: Great Upsets in US Soccer History

Now that the greatest upset in U.S. soccer history is a few hours old, it seemed appropriate to reflect on some of the U.S.’ other big soccer upsets. Enjoy.


1950 World Cup
Known as the “Miracle on Grass” the United States stunned England and the rest of the world with their 1-0 victory over the “Kings of Football” at the Estadio Independcia in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. In the 37th minute Walter Bahr crossed the ball in to Joe Gaetjens who grazed the ball just enough to put it past goalkeeper Bert Williams to put the Americans up 1-0 and make history. The United States would win the game 1-0. Neither team advanced through to the knockout stage.

1998 CONCACAF Gold Cup
The United States stunned Brazil in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup, winning 1-0. Preki scored the game’s only goal, a powerful strike from outside the box that sailed over Tafarrel’s head. Kasey Keller was brilliant in goal, stifling the likes of Romario and Edmundo while preserving the shutout. Unfortunately, the Red, White and Blue lost to the Tricolores of Mexico in the championship match.

1994 World Cup
The U.S. took on Colombia in a group stage match of the 1994 World Cup in front of a staggering 93,000 fans at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles. The United States did not disappoint the home crowd, upsetting Colombia 2-1. Thanks to an own goal from Andres Escobar, and a goal from Ernie Stewart put the Americans ahead and helped secure passage into the knockout round.

2002 World Cup
The United States sent the shot heard ‘round the world in the group stage of the 2002 World Cup, when they took down Portugal 3-2. John O’Brien and Brian McBride scored goals, while Jorge Costa put in an own goal for Portugal. The U.S. made it through to the knockout stage and advanced to the quarterfinals where they fell to Germany 1-0.