American Samoa faced numerous hurdles in the lead-up
FIFA.com chronicles the back-story to a unique match
Twenty years ago today a world record international score was set.
Australia 31-0 American Samoa
It is a mark that will surely never be surpassed.
This is the back-story of how the record books were torn to shreds in Coffs Harbour. About six hours north of Sydney, the area’s beachside ambience is more renowned as a summer holiday spot. But in football circles, the town’s name has become more synonymous with a barely believable 90 minutes.
Newly-minted international striker Archie Thompson scored an unthinkable 13 goals, another world record that seems certain never to be erased. Unbelievably, Thompson posted a new individual FIFA World Cup™ scoring record moments before the break to leave the half-time score at 16-0.