Hartford

Soccer Star Plays Last Game for U.S. at Rentschler Field

Soccer star Landon Donovan made his final appearance with the U.S. Men's National Team at Rentschler Field tonight.

Donovan received a standing ovation when he walked off the field after the first half of the match-up against Ecuador. After the game ended with a 1-1 tie, Donovan was named Man of the Match, a fitting send-off for a star of his caliber.

He was honored with a tribute video highlighting memorable moments from his career all the way back to his time as a youth player.

Over the course of 15 years, Donovan has become the most accomplished player in team history and holds several team records, including the most goals and most assists.

Donovan, four-time U.S. Soccer Male Athlete of the Year, announced his retirement in August.

"Playing for the U.S. National Team has been a huge part of my career and I'm ecstatic to have the opportunity to play for my country one last time," Donovan said in a statement. "I'm so grateful to all the fans that have supported me and this game will give me the chance to say thank you to all of them. I look forward to a great evening and I'm thankful to U.S. Soccer for making this happen."

"For 15 years, Landon has thrilled us with his amazing abilities on the field and impressed us with his gracious approach off the field," said U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati, in a statement Tuesday. "We are looking forward to celebrating his legacy during our next home National Team match and allowing fans the opportunity to thank him for all the memories he's provided over the years."

Donovan was cut from the 2014 World Cup roster and said he initially rooted against Team USA in the tournament.

Tickets to the game at Rentschler are available online, by phone at 1-877-522-8499 and at the XL Center ticket office.

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