In honor of Supporters Week here at MLSsoccer.com, we highlight the three matches in which it was the USMNT supporters who left us with the most indelible moments.
3. October 14, 2009 - USA vs. Costa Rica
US national team fans had lost a player who had become their newest hero following his exploits at the 2009 Confederations Cup.
Two days before the US faced Costa Rica in their final 2010 World Cup qualifier, Charlie Davies was involved in a tragic car accident, but US fans made sure he knew from his hospital bed that the stanky leg was still in their hearts with a moving tribute in the ninth minute.
2. February 28, 2001 - USA vs. Mexico
In a match that represented a turning point in the historic rivalry between the USA and Mexico, supporters ensured that the USMNT had their first true home field advantage on US soil against El Tri.
And at Crew Stadium, which was opened as the first soccer stadium in MLS less than two years before, Mexico had no chance against the cold and the fans.
1. September 6, 2008 - Cuba vs. USA
SI.com coined them the "Cuba Cinco." They were the handful of USMNT supporters who made sure they didn't miss the USA's first match in Cuba in 61 years. They went through a third country and ignored a US government ban to get there. Despite their small numbers, the supporters' masked presence on TV was as patriotic a show that USMNT fans had ever witnessed.
“I’m fine with [the risks],” one of the fans told SI.com. “I will go anywhere our team plays to support our team."
Said like a true supporter.
