The USAÆs 3-2 win over Portugal in its opening game of World Cup 2002 marks the AmericansÆ fifth win in World Cup history. In six previous World Cup appearances, the USA notched four wins, lost 12, and tied once. The three goals notched in the win over Portugal matches the USAÆs most productive performances at a World Cup — twice before has the U.S. scored thrice in a World Cup game. In seven games over the last two World Cups (1998 & 1994), the USA notched four goals.

U.S. World Cup victories:

1930

USA 3 Belgium 0
U.S. scorers: McGhee, Patenaude, Florie
USA 3 Paraguay 0
U.S. scorers: Patenaude, Patenaude, Patenaude

1950

USA 1 England 0
U.S. scorer: Gaetjens

1994

USA 2 Colombia 1
U.S. scorers: own goal, Stewart

2002

USA 3 Portugal 2
U.S. scorers: OÆBrien, own goal, McBride