(Getty)
The Copa America party lasted just eight minutes for the United States, as Colombia cruised to victory in the tournament opener. Now USA are in desperation mode, knowing a poor result in Tuesday’s match against Costa Rica will nearly guarantee their elimination in the group stage.
Here’s a look at all the betting information you need to know, along with a prediction for Tuesday’s match:
USA vs. Costa Rica Betting Info
Spread: USA -1/2 (-125), Costa Rica +1/2 (+105)
Moneyline: USA (-125), Costa Rica (+425), Draw (+240)
Over/Under: Over 2 (-110), Under 2 (-110)
Prediction
USA were sloppy against Colombia in their opener, giving 18 percent of passes away. But that’s been a trend with all the CONCACAF teams in the tournament, and it’s possible USA have an easier time taking care of the ball at Solider Field.
Los Ticos are more than comfortable as the underdog. They surprised everyone at the 2014 World Cup, forcing Netherlands to a penalty shootout before their quarterfinal exit. They were underdogs in their opening match to Paraguay, but held on for the scoreless draw.
The draw against Paraguay did not come without a price. Defender Kendall Watson received a late red card, and will be unavailable for today’s match. Costa Rica don’t have much depth and they’ll miss Watson, who was a finalist for MLS Defender of the Year in 2015.
These teams met less than a year ago, when Costa Rica payed USMNT a visit at Red Bull Arena in New Jersey. Costa Rica won that matchup 1-0, in another match where USA looked sloppy and lackluster. When it comes to competitive matches, however, USMNT haven’t lost to Costa Rica on US soil in 15 straight matches.
Joel Campbell did the scoring for Los Ticos that day, and he’ll once again be the man to watch Tuesday night. Costa Rica may not have Keylor Navas in goal, but Campbell and Brian Ruiz are a dangerous midfield tandem.
It’s not just a big game for this team. Tuesday night is a big game for this sport in this country. USA, more specifically Jurgen Klinsmann, can’t disappoint again.
Prediction: 2-1 United States
Best Bet: USA to score in both halves (+245)
Find out how to watch this game in Spanish at AhoraMismo.com:
