As Tim Ream led to one of their greatest results in history against Paraguay, the veteran defender made some tournament history of his own.
During the at Los Angeles Stadium, the centre-back became the oldest Stars and Stripes player to ever take part in the global showpiece at the age of 38 years and 250 days, overtaking Fernando Clavijo's previous record from USA 1994.
As has been the hallmark of his entire career, Ream displayed little interest in personal accolades afterwards. Instead, the captain remained focused on the wider group — a quality which has made him an outstanding choice as the USA's captain.
"It's just me. I don't really think about it," Ream told FIFA. "I don't really think about being the old guy. I don't really think about setting records or anything other than being part of the group and being a part of something special.... and just being a part of something that is so much bigger than you.
"It's a huge honour to make that type of history but I'm not in the game to make history... I'm here for the joy and the love and to help these boys out and push them along."
Ream formed a solid partnership with the returning Chris Richards at the back, providing the platform for the likes of Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna to do their damage in attack.
"It's an honour to lead the team and just to be part of the group is a huge honour," Ream added. "We've put in a lot of work and the guys have done a lot to get to this point.
"To put in a performance like that and get three points and start the way we have is everything that we wanted. Hats off to the guys - a lot of firsts... first goals and first World Cup caps. It's been a good night overall."
There had been some question marks as to whether Richards would play in the opener after suffering an ankle injury while playing for Crystal Palace. For Ream, however, his defensive partner's participation was never in any doubt.
"Chris is a warrior, he's a battler," he said. "There was nothing that was going to stop him from being available and being in this game. He'll probably be sore tomorrow as most of us will be but he's a gamer and you want those types on your team. For him to come through the injury and play a significant part in the game is a huge boost for the group."
Sources: FIFA Official
