Landon Donovan’s 2010 World Cup goal: the moment that changed soccer in the United States
Landon Donovan’s 2010 World Cup goal: the moment that changed soccer in the United States Landon Donovan’s last-minute goal against Algeria at the 2010 FIFA World Cup remains one of the most iconic moments in the history of soccer in the United States — and one that still shapes the sport’s trajectory ahead of 2026. More than just a dramatic winner, it became a cultural turning point. What happened on the play On June 23, 2010, in Pretoria, the United States faced Algeria in the final match of Group C.
The stakes were simple: win and advance, draw and likely go home. As stoppage time began, the match was still tied 0-0. Algeria launched a dangerous attack, forcing goalkeeper Tim Howard into a crucial save.
Instead of slowing the play down, Howard reacted instantly, distributing the ball forward to ignite a counterattack. Landon Donovan carried the play through midfield as the U. S.
surged forward. After a sequence involving Jozy Altidore and a rebound saved by Algerian goalkeeper Raïs M’Bolhi, the ball fell back to Donovan inside the box. From close range, he struck it cleanly into the net.
Goal. The United States won 1-0, finished first in the group — their best result since 1930 — and advanced to the knockout stage. Commentator Ian Darke’s call, “Go, go, USA!