USA vs Costa Rica
Football betting fans may still remember the thrashing Costa Rica endured against the United States in the recently concluded Gold Cup, and the pain is likely fresh among Los Ticos. Given this factoid, betting websites may give the edge to the Stars and Stripes in their upcoming World Cup Qualifier clash.
While I may agree with their opinions, I think it’s important to reconsider the situation before actually making a bet online. Hear me out when I say Costa Rica have a better chance of getting a favourable result this time round.
Firstly, we have to acknowledge that Bruce Arena probably has the better pool of players to choose from than Oscar Ramirez. With names such as Tim Howard, Eric Lichaj, Omar Gonzalez, Christian Pulisic and Clint Dempsey ready to suit up, the Americans can field a strong XI that can do the same amount of damage as the lineup that crushed Costa Rica in Arlington, Texas.
Secondly, the Gold Cup semi-final match also has a psychological impact on Ramirez’s lads. They were mercilessly beaten by the tournament hosts without even fielding all of their best players. This nugget of truth has a huge impact on how they will start the match. If they let their psyche get the best of them, the game will be a long night for them and their supporters.
However, they have performed well in the qualifiers and are currently second in the table. If they focus on getting a draw (which is something I’m sure Rodriguez is drilling to his lads right now), they can secure their automatic ticket to Russia even more. This drive to get to Russia will motivate Costa Rica to play harder and smarter.
The question for this game is whether the United States can manage to break through Costa Rica’s defensive plans in order to get the three points. They are at risk of falling a spot in the table if they get anything other than a win.
I think the United States can win by no more than a few goals. I think the quality of their players will allow them to sneak in a goal past Los Ticos’ shell-like defence and carry the lead all the way to the final whistle. I suggest that you make a bet on USA’s -0.75 Asian Handicap for 2.00 odds.
Best of luck to the fans of these sides – they’re going to need it!
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
