The U.S. Men’s National Team doesn’t have an “official” home venue, but MAPFRE Stadium is arguably the closest thing to it. The U.S. is undefeated in the country’s first soccer-specific stadium, going 7-0-3 all-time and 6-0-2 in World Cup qualifying matches. As we’re counting down the days to the March 29 World Cup qualifier vs. Guatemala in Columbus, we’re taking a look at the USMNT’s seven wins at MAPFRE Stadium. Here's the final win: No.7.
Almost one year to the date after the U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Jamaica 1-0 in Columbus, the Stars and Stripes returned to MAPFRE Stadium for the fourth installment of “Dos a Cero” against Mexico.
The Yanks stepped onto the pitch on September 10, 2013, only needing a win and a Panama loss or draw to Honduras to officially qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. In front of over 24,000 supporters, the Red, White and Blue felt positive vibes as the whistle blew for kickoff.
The first 45 was fairly even between the two sides, with the USMNT’s best chance coming in the 32nd minute. A curling corner served up by Landon Donovan found the head of a streaking Eddie Johnson, who powered the ball into the hands of Mexican ‘keeper Jesús Corona.
However, Johnson’s opportunities would not be denied for much longer.
Just four minutes after the break, another Landon Donovan corner flew into the box and again found the head of Johnson. The striker powered the ball into the back of the net to give Team USA the 1-0 advantage.
The USMNT added a second goal in the 78th, when NYCFC midfielder Mix Diskerud showed some great ball control on the right side of the penalty area and slotted a low cross across the face of goal. His ball was met by the foot of a lunging Landon Donovan, who finished it home to give his side a comfortable 2-0 lead.
As the final whistle blew, and it became known that Panama and Honduras had played to a 2-2 draw, the Stars and Stripes had qualified for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The fourth “Dos a Cero” victory for the USMNT created momentum that carried Jurgen Klinsmann’s side all the way to the Round of 16 in Brazil.
