While the score of this game would suggest a United States dominance, the game was much closer than 3-1. The match was scoreless at halftime. Ireland scored first when Mick McCarthy headed in a cross from Steve Staunton in the 51st minute.
Contrary to the initial appearance of a decisive U.S. win, the game was actually much closer than the final score of 3-1 would indicate. The match ended scoreless at halftime before Ireland scored the first goal in the 51st minute.