USA vs Panama
Whisper it quietly but US soccer may be taking a turn for the better after a spell in the doldrums.
As the Gold Cup returns to San Diego for the first time since the turn of the millennium, sports betting fans should seriously consider taking a flutter on Bruce Arena’s side.
For World Cup qualification in Russia next summer remains a distinct possibility, while Gold Cup glory this summer would give the nation an undoubted lift.
Football games against Panama aren’t as straightforward as many think, however.
A World Cup qualifier in Panama City in March proved as much when both sides were solid, rather than spectacular, in a 1-1 draw.
Yet, that result was another step forward after their disastrous start to qualifying.
And so why shouldn’t the stars and stripes prove their worth yet again in the biennial tournament for North America, Central America and the Caribbean?
Certainly, America should at least claim the runners-up spot in this competition.
While Arena has not selected a fully strength squad (Christian Pulisic, Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey among those not involved), perennial favourites Mexico – fresh from reaching the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup – haven’t either.
The Americans are keen to gain further momentum with players needing to impress ahead of autumn qualifiers as Arena starts whittling down who makes the cut for Russia.
And then there is also the matter of revenge, two years after the US were defeated by the Panamanians in a penalty shoot-out in the third/fourth place play-off – one of the low points of Jurgen Klinsmann’s reign.
The truth is while more eyes will be on a series of high profile club friendlies in the States later this month, the Gold Cup will still offer compelling viewing.
An MLS-heavy squad will ultimately have to be cut and this is the chance for the likes of Kellyn Acosta and Eric Lichaj to grab their chance.
As I say, Panama will be no pushovers.
Indeed, this is a nation which has improved enormously under the stewardship of Hernan Dario Gomez.
But, the Asian Handicap odds of USA -0.75@ 1.96 seem a good bet, even if the 1X2 draw @ 3.50 has a certain appeal too.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
