Verdict: Total goals over 3.5
Best odds: 9/4
Bookmaker: Bet365
Panama take on the USA in round three of the CONCACAF – Gold Cup’s Group D.
Panama
The Central Americans had been on terrible form prior to the start of the tournament, stringing 14 consecutive matches without a win. That, however, changed completely in the opening round as they put Trinidad and Tobago to the sword. They managed to build on that with a victory over Guyana, and they, perhaps unexpectedly, find themselves in contention to win the group.
Team News
Coach Dely Valdes changed things around for the Guyana clash after beating Trinidad and Tobago, with Abdiel Arroyo and Rolando Blackburn starting ahead of Jose Fajardo and Gabriel Torres up front. However, as it was Arroyo who opened the scoring and Torres scored coming off the bench, it will be interesting to see who gets the nod this time.
USA
The United States of America are the defending champions, and like Panama, they also started the tournament in style. Both Guyana (4-0) and Trinidad and Tobago (6-0) fell before them too, and now only Panama stand between them and the top place in the group.
Their recent record in this competition is impressive, and it is widely expected they will win this one too.
Team News
Unlike Valdes, USA coach Gregg Berhalter started both previous games with the same lineup, but he may consider resting a few players for this one. Even so, his team will be favorites to win.
Christian Pulisic who has left Borussia Dortmund for Chelsea this summer, has thrived in the central attacking position so far, but if need be, Berhalter also has the experienced Jozy Altidore to call upon.
Conclusion
With the Americans scoring freely in their recent games, another high-scoring win may be on the cards for them.
Verdict: Total goals over 3.5
Best odds: 9/4
Bookmaker: Bet365
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