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Host country USA will take on the surprise package of Cuba in the Gold Cup quarterfinals.
The United States obviously came into this tournament hoping to win it and they have every chance to do so, but despite home court advantage, USA has been rather disappointing so far. The hosts won their group with 7 points, but the performances did not quite meet the expectations: 2-1 with Panama, 1-0 with Haiti and a 1-1 draw in the last group game against Panama. However, USA did the job and Klinsmann’s side will most likely show another level in the KO stage. The German manager stated that he is delighted with the fact that his team had a tough group and was tested.
It really is a minor miracle that Cupa reached the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup for the second time in a row. Cuba (who has only players from the domestic league) is one of the worst sides, if not the worst, in this competition and they traditionally get humiliated in the group stage, struggling to get even a point. This tournament started in the same manner, with Cuba getting blown out by Mexico 6-0 and losing 2-0 to Trinidad Tobago in the next match. Even worse, three players defected in order to remain in US and there were also some visa problems, many of the staff and players arriving very late in USA. Everything was set for a horrible tournament, but a shock 1-0 win against Guatemala allowed Cupa to finish third in the group and qualify.
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Team news: Klinzmann has sent Jozy Altidore home due to poor form and questionable fitness, while Cuba will miss at least 4 players, including the ones that defected.
In the last Gold Cup, Cuba lost 6-1 in the quarterfinals to Panama after an unlikely qualification and I bet history will repeat itself today. USA hasn`t played great so far, but they met much better opposition in all group games and are surely set to raise their level in the quarters – not to mention they have home court advantage. Even if the United States don`t play a good game, they should emerge victorious with many goals to spare. Cuba is just too poor, their incredible qualification is worthy of praise but they really do not belong at this level. The atmosphere is probably not that great with three players running away from the squad and I wouldn`t be surprised if others do the same just before the USA match – which would be a disaster for a team with no depth, but obviously I am not counting on this.
Mexico put 6 past Cuba and USA should be able to put at least 4 themselves, even if they play poorly. In form Dempsey could put 2 or 3 all by himself and get a grip on the top scorer title. My tip is USA to win. Prediction: USA – Cuba 5-0.
United States – Cuba and Gold Cup live streaming available for players at Bet365.com.
Pick: USA (-3 Asian Handicap)
Odds: 2.06 @ Pinnacle
Stake: 8
Possible profit: 8.48
Event date: 18 July
