Clint Dempsey has been on fire for Team USA. (Getty)
The United States have already locked up Group A and are headed to the knock-out stages of the 2015 Gold Cup. However, this does not seem to be impacting how Team USA looks at Monday’s match against Panama. Head Coach Jurgen Klinsmann told Goal.com:
The approach is picking up more rhythm, going for another three points, and finishing off the group with three wins. We take that very seriously. We also know we have influence on who is going through, so we are not taking our foot off the pedal there. We will give it a very good game and keep on building confidence and fine tuning elements and improve our game.”
Panama is currently second in Group A with 2 points and is fighting to advance to the next round. The varying stakes of the match for each team will be a factor to watch throughout the contest. Here is what you need to know about Monday’s match:
The Basics
Who:
USA vs. Panama
When:
Monday, January 13th, 9:30 PM EST
Channel:
Fox Sports 1
Where:
Sporting Park; Kansas City, Kansas
Line:
USA -1 (Odds are according to Bovada and subject to change)
Panama +1
Last Meeting:
According to SB Nation, the US and Panama last faced each other on October 15, 2013. The match was for 2014 World Cup qualifying and the United States came out with a 3-2 victory. The US scored late in stoppage time to eliminate Panama from qualifying for the World Cup and sent Mexico through to the tournament.
Panama Preview
Panama playing in their Gold Cup match against Honduras. (Getty)
Panama sits at second in the Group A table with 2 points. A victory Monday night would automatically send them through to the next round. A tie or a loss would mean Panama would need help from other teams in the group.
They were minutes away from a win in their first match against Haiti but a late equalizer tied the match at 1-1. Panama’s second match against Honduras also ended in a 1-1 draw. A win Monday night would give Panama its first victory of the tournament while a loss could eliminate them from the Gold Cup.
United States Preview
Captain Michael Bradley hopes the US can continue their winning streak. (Getty)
Team USA has shown flashes of brilliance interspersed with poor play. They have yet to put together a full 90 minute performance. One question is whether Klinsmann will rest starters such as Clint Dempsey and Michael Bradley during the match. Keep a close eye on the starting line-up to see what players may be resting for the next round.
Clint Dempsey has had quite the first two matches. He has scored all three of the United States’ goals. The US won their first match against Honduras 2-1. They won their second match against Haiti 1-0.
The United States are already headed to the knock-out stages and have clinched Group A. They will play again Saturday, July 18th against a team that has yet to be determined.
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