Landon Donovan is one of the generational stars responsible for the immense growth and popularity of soccer in the United States, but the 32-year-old legend won’t be representing the red, white and blue at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil next month.
U.S. manager Jurgen Klinsmann called leaving Donovan off his final 23-man roster one of the “toughest decisions” of his coaching career.
As the all-time leader in goals scored and assists for the U.S. men’s national team, it will be a little weird watching the Americans compete at the World Cup without Donovan. He’s represented the United States at the last three World Cups and has played in the English Premier League for Everton FC.
Let’s look back on Donovan’s remarkable international career with his greatest moments in the videos below.
2003 International Friendly against Cuba
Donovan led the United States to a 5-0 victory over Cuba at Gillette Stadium with four goals.
2008 International Friendly against Sweden
Donovan’s successful penalty kick makes him the all-time leading goal scorer in U.S. men’s national team history, passing Eric Wynalda.
2009 Confederations Cup Final against Brazil
The United States defeated defending European champions Spain to advance to the Confederations Cup final against Brazil. The U.S. took a 2-0 lead with a goal from Donovan in the 27th minute, but were unable to secure the victory as Brazil completed a stunning comeback to win 3-2.
2010 FIFA World Cup against Slovenia
Donovan showed off his striking power and impeccable accuracy with this goal in group stage play. He was able to beat the Slovenian goalkeeper from a difficult angle to give the United States life after a poor start.
2010 FIFA World Cup against Algeria
This rebound goal secured a 1-0 victory for the United States to end group stage play. The Americans needed a victory to advance to the knockout stages.
2011 Gold Cup Final against Mexico
The United States was defeated by rivals Mexico 4-2 in the 2011 Gold Cup final, which included a sensational goal from Donovan, who placed a shot past the goalkeeper in the bottom-left corner of the net.
