USA to quash plucky Martinique
There is a David and Goliath encounter on matchday two in Group B when Martinique meet USA. They did not embarrass themselves in their tournament opener, Martinique not a FIFA recognised nation, therefore the Gold Cup is the biggest competition they are eligible for, going down 4-1 against Canada. Whereas USA got the better of Haiti to a 1-0 scoreline. The Matinino are as big as 33/1 in places to win the match, probably the largest price I have ever seen in the outright market. Still not enough though to encourage me to get involved, moving to the Asian Handicap to find value.
Background
There is immense competition for places upfront for the Yanks. With Gyasi Zardes preferred to Daryl Dike and Matthew Hoppe for the opening match, Colorado Rapids’ Sam Vines grabbed his first for his country with the only goal of the game last time out. Haiti gave a good account of themselves, only losing to shot count 13-10, they will fancy their chances of testing Canada in their second matchup.
A large percentage of the Martinique are domestically based with the three standout names being centre back Jean-Sylvain Babin of Sporting Gijon, Nimes left back Patrick Burner and Crotone striker Emmanuel Riviere. Premier League fans may recall a desperate spell at Newcastle United from Riviere. He hit the ground running to score the opener and stun Canada on matchday one, giving his country the lead in the tenth minute. They lost the shot count 14-5 who overall impressed, with the fourth goal coming in the 89th minute after an admirable second half display.
The match presents somewhat of a lose lose situation for USA. If they make light work of it, it is only Martinique, yet if they do not, they will be in for intense criticism and anxiety of their tournament chances. It is as every game is, a free hit for Martinique.
The pressure is on after an unconvincing matchday one, USA will not want unnecessary stress heading into their final group game meeting with Canada and therefore will be determined to take maximum points here. I say they do it handsomely.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
6-1 USA. 4-0 up by the hour mark, comfortable winner.