2010 USA Away – Landon Donovan #10 Small

The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa stands as one of the most iconic tournaments in United States Men’s National Team history. Managed by Bob Bradley, the U.S. entered the competition with modest expectations but left with global respect, defined by resilience, late drama, and an unmistakable fighting spirit that resonated with fans worldwide.

Drawn into Group C alongside England, Slovenia, and Algeria, the U.S. endured a rollercoaster group stage. They opened with a 1–1 draw against England, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error to earn a crucial point. This was followed by a dramatic 2–2 draw with Slovenia, in which the U.S. mounted a remarkable comeback from two goals down, only to have a potential winner controversially disallowed.

Needing a win in their final group match, the U.S. delivered one of the most unforgettable moments in World Cup history. Against Algeria, the Americans pushed relentlessly until Landon Donovan scored in stoppage time, a counterattacking finish that sealed a 1–0 victory and sent the U.S. to the knockout rounds as group winners — a rare and historic achievement.

In the Round of 16, the U.S. faced Ghana in a rematch of the 2006 World Cup. Despite a strong response after conceding early, the Americans were eliminated 2–1 after extra time, ending a campaign remembered for heart, unity, and belief rather than disappointment.

The 2010 USA away kit, designed by Nike, was a bold departure from tradition. Featuring a deep navy blue base with a diagonal red sash — inspired by the 1950 U.S. kit — it instantly became one of the most distinctive designs in World Cup history. The sash symbolized heritage and bravery, and the shirt is now regarded as a modern classic, inseparably linked to Donovan’s legendary moment.

2. Player’s Impact – Landon Donovan

The 2010 World Cup cemented Landon Donovan’s status as the greatest player in U.S. men’s national team history. Entering the tournament as the team’s creative leader, Donovan delivered when it mattered most, blending intelligence, composure, and clutch finishing on football’s biggest stage.

Donovan made 4 appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists, but his influence far exceeded raw numbers. Operating primarily as a wide attacking midfielder, he drifted intelligently between lines, linking midfield to attack and exploiting space on the counter. His vision and timing were vital to the U.S.’s transition play.

His defining moment came on June 23, 2010, in Pretoria. With elimination looming, Donovan followed up a Tim Howard save and calmly finished into the net in the 91st minute against Algeria. The goal became an instant piece of American sporting folklore — a moment that transcended soccer and captured the attention of the entire nation.

Beyond the goal, Donovan’s leadership and tactical discipline were crucial. He assisted Clint Dempsey’s equalizer against Slovenia and consistently carried the creative burden in a team built on collective effort. The 2010 tournament represented Donovan at his peak — confident, decisive, and fully embracing the responsibility of being the face of American soccer.

3. Full Squad List (United States – 2010 World Cup, South Africa)

Manager: Bob Bradley

Goalkeepers:
Tim Howard, Brad Guzan, Marcus Hahnemann

Defenders:
Carlos Bocanegra (captain), Oguchi Onyewu, Jay DeMerit, Steve Cherundolo, Jonathan Bornstein, Jonathan Spector, Clarence Goodson

Midfielders:
Landon Donovan, Michael Bradley, Clint Dempsey, Ricardo Clark, Maurice Edu, Stuart Holden, José Francisco Torres, DaMarcus Beasley

Forwards:
Jozy Altidore, Robbie Findley, Edson Buddle, Herculez Gomez