Brazil’s 1998 Gold Cup campaign started with draws against Jamaica and Guatemala, leading to some uncertainty about their form. They found their stride with subsequent victories over El Salvador and Guatemala. Still, no one was sure on what to expect.
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The decider came during the semifinal against the USA on February 10, 1998, held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. In a closely fought match, the USA managed a rare win over Brazil. Preki Radosavljević, with an assist from Eric Wynalda, delivered the game’s only goal in the 65th minute, securing the win in front of just over 12,000 spectators.
#OTD in 1998:
Preki's lone goal leads us to victory over Brazil in the Gold Cup Semifinal. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/vABKRmpk1n
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) February 10, 2022
Goalkeeper Kasey Keller starred for the USA, making ten saves to keep the Brazilian attackers at bay, including star forward Romário. Keller’s efforts were vital in preserving the narrow lead.
However, the team couldn’t maintain their momentum, losing 1-0 to Mexico in the final. Luis Hernández scored the decisive goal. Despite this setback, the victory over Brazil proved the potential of the United States men’s national soccer team (USMNT).
Today, 12th June, the USA seeks to repeat history at the Camping World Stadium Orlando, Florida. Can’t make it there? Here is how to watch the match from anywhere.
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Binge the full series, available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel.
