It's possible to calculate the USMNT's progress and success through a series of games and milestones tied to various nations around the world. The rivalry with Mexico has defined the US’s growth and success over the past two decades. Games against others such as England, Colombia, and Costa Rica have also come to define the program over the years.

Another opponent that has helped measure the success of the US National Team over the past 30 years has been Italy. The country has played a series of very meaningful matches against the Americans dating back to the 1990 World Cup it hosted. The Italians finished third at that tournament.