Snow Clasico: Remembering USMNT's controversial frosty triumph over Costa Rica in 2014 World Cup qualifier

In a crucial World Cup qualifier, the USMNT faced Costa Rica on March 22, 2013 in a driving snowstorm that blanketed the field. Despite the challenging conditions, Clint Dempsey capitalized on a deflected shot from Jozy Altidore in the 16th minute, scoring the game's only goal.

The "Snow Clasico" stands as one of the most iconic matches in USMNT history, and highlights the sometimes unpredictable nature of World Cup qualifying in CONCACAF.

This victory was crucial for the USMNT's 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign. It marked their first three points in the hexagonal round and set the tone for their successful qualification. The USMNT would go on to finish first in the group above Costa Rica and Honduras, winning seven out of their 10 games.

The current edition of the USMNT face Canada Sunday night in the CONCACAF Nations League third-place match. Following that, Mauricio Pochettino’s side will face Turkey and Switzerland ahead of the 2025 Gold Cup, which the US are co-hosting alongside Canada.