The Greatest Moments in U.S. Soccer History

Olympic gold, shock upsets, and a victory or two over Mexico, what are the greatest moments in U.S. soccer history?

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Complex Original

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The United States Soccer Federation was founded on April 5, 1913, and in it's 101-year history both the men's and women's teams have suffered heart-breaking defeats, and experienced victories that have lifted a nation. The U.S. hosted the World Cup successfully in 1994, and impressed by reaching the quarterfinals of the tournament in 2002. The U.S. women came to prominence with their first world title in 1991, and breathed new life into the program with a World Cup final appearance in 2011, and a gold medal victory at the 2012 Olympics in London. The likes of McBride, Caligiuri, Akers, and Chastain built the foundation of the modern U.S. game, while names like Dempsey, Donovan, Wambach, and Morgan continue the evolution of American soccer. Looking to build on their Round of 16 performance at South Africa in 2010, the latest installment of the U.S. men's national team begin the quest for World Cup glory tonight. They'll face a familiar opponent in Ghana first, before progressing on to matches against Portugal and Germany. Take a look at how both programs got to where they are today, by reliving The Greatest Moments in U.S. Soccer History.

Written by Adam Silvers (@silversurfer103)

12. The U.S. Stuns Portugal in Their Opening Match at the 2002 World Cup

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11. Michael Bradley Rescues a Point Against Slovenia

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10. Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore Combine to Beat the World's No. 1 Team

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9. The U.S. Women Head to the Gold Medal Game on Alex Morgan's Extra Time Winner

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8. Brian McBride's Well-Placed Finish Downs Rivals Mexico in the Round of 16

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7. Benny Feilhaber's 2007 Gold Cup Final Winner

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6. Abby Wambach's Extra Time Goal Sends the U.S. to the Semis

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5. Earnie Stewart's Stunner in 1994 Sinks Colombia

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4. Michelle Akers Gives the U.S. Women Their First World Title

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3. Paul Caligiuri's Brilliant Strike Saves U.S. Soccer

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2. Brandi Chastain's 1999 World Cup Winning Penalty

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1. Landon Donovan's Stoppage Time Winner Sends the U.S. to the Knockout Stage

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