how did usmnt do in 2002 world cup

The USMNT had its best modern World Cup run in 2002, reaching the quarterfinals after a memorable knockout win over Mexico. That tournament remains their deepest run in the men’s World Cup era.

What happened in 2002

The team advanced out of the group stage and then beat Mexico 2-0 in the Round of 16, which is still one of the biggest wins in U.S. men’s soccer history. They then lost 1-0 to Germany in the quarterfinals, falling just short of the semifinals.

Why it stands out

That 2002 squad is often remembered as the benchmark for USMNT World Cup performance because it is the only time the U.S. men have won a knockout-stage match at the tournament. It also came during a strong overall campaign that gave American soccer fans a real breakthrough moment on the global stage.

Quick result

• Group stage: advanced.

• Round of 16: beat Mexico 2-0.

• Quarterfinals: lost to Germany 1-0.

Would you like the full match-by-match recap of the 2002 run?