USA
vs.
Ghana
World Cup Prediction
Odds and Preview
6/16/14
The United States is going to be an underdog in every match this World Cup. That’s the quality of group they play in. On Monday, June 16, they take on Ghana, the one opponent that many believe will be the only points USA can get in group stages. However, they are actually underdogs in this Game. Not by much, but they still face an uphill battle.
If you’re not familiar with Soccer betting, pay attention here. There are a couple of different ways to bet this match. One with the “Draw” option, and one without. Here are the odds from 5 dimes sportsbook for this match.
The first example, is WITHOUT the Draw.
USA pk +110
Ghana pk -125
With the above odds, if the Game ends in a draw, as many Soccer matches do, your bet would be refunded. In otherwords, it would be a push.
Here are the odds WITH the draw option:
USA +207
Ghana +166
DRAW +217
As you can see, you can get some nice juicy prices. Much better payoffs for both teams. However, If the match ends in a draw, you LOSE! So be careful.
The over/under for the match is 2 goals.
USA comes into this Game having won all three of their pre-World Cup friendlies, scoring two goals in each of them. They beat Azerbaijan 2-0, Turkey 2-1 and Nigeria 2-1. While that looks nice on the record, friendlies aren’t nearly as meaningful as an actual Game, especially one in the World Cup.
Ghana won the last two times these teams played, which happened to be in the 2006 and 2010 World Cup’s. Some people look back at those Games to predict this one, but it’d be wise not to.
These are two new teams, especially the United States. Jurgen Klinsmann is at the helm and he’s already made a mark for this squad, leaving off the storied LAndon Donovan. While many fans are doubting this move, it’s hard to believe that Donovan would truly make the difference between this team advancing or not.
This team has three or Four main players that will be vital to success in this Game. Striker Jozy Altidore is coming off a two-goal effort and looks primed for a big Tournament. Captain Clint Dempsey is the team’s top goal scorer, while Michael Bradley does everything in the middle of the field. And of course, Tim Howard is a top keeper in the net. All of these players have World Cup experience and need to lead the way.
Ghana’s defense is probably their weakest spot on the field, but the same can be said about the USA. It’s going to fall on which offense can capitalize on the mistakes. The Black Stars have plenty of talent and experience as well with Asamoah Gyan and Andre Ayew up front. Their midfield may have an edge as well with the strength of Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and Kevin Prince Boateng. All three of those midfielders have experience playing at some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
Most people don’t even know who’s going to start for the Americans on the back line, and that’s not usually a good sign. It’ll likely fall to guys like Matt Besler and Geoff Cameron, who have limited experience on a stage this big. The same can be said about the Ghana defenders, who are probably younger than the USA’s.
With Germany and Portugal also in this group, both teams will be pushing to get the full three points. That said, with both teams so similar, it wouldn’t be surprising to have this Game end in a draw. If you’re a bold bettor, that’s the way to go, otherwise you can always play it safe by going Ghana PK or United States PK.
Remember, the last time these teams played, Ghana needed extra time to win.
Our Pick – USA +207 (Draw loses)