CONCACAF Gold Cup 2009 Betting Preview

The CONCACAF Gold Cup 2009 is almost upon us, the schedule set. BetUS brings you a full preview of this exciting summer competition as soccer betting picks up pace.

The competition is divided into three, four team groups. The defending champions USA are in Group B, along with Haiti, Honduras and Grenada. Group A consists of Jamaica, Canada, Costa Rica and El Salvador. Group C includes Mexico, Guadeloupe, Nicaragua and Panama. The top two teams from each group will make the quarterfinals, as will the top two third placed teams. So here is a look at how these groups might play out.

Group A: Costa Rica is considered a powerhouse in this competition and they have sent a good team this year. They are the team to beat in this group. Jamaica though looks solid. They have not lost a competitive match since last September, winning their last three World Cup qualifiers before being eliminated on goal difference. Canada is typically strong in this event (they won it twice). El Salvador are the underdogs but they recently tied US 2-2 proving they can hold their own. The question is whether they can transcend the friendly confines and bring it in the competitive realm.

Favourites: Costa Rica

Dark horse: El Salvador

Group B: Honduras are the team to beat in this group but they send a watered down team to Gold Cup 2009 and the squad faces the adversity of political instability back home. USA are strong contenders in this group as well, coming off a remarkable run into the finals of Confederations Cup before bowing out to Brazil 3-2. However, they are sending a watered down squad as well. Haiti are middleweights in this group that could qualify into the quarterfinals as one of the top two third placed teams. Grenada are long shots.

Favourites: Honduras

Dark horse: United States

Group C: This Group is perhaps the weakest of the three. Mexico have to be considered favourites in this group even though they are not as sharp as in previous years. They are the most successful side in this competition so they can’t be dismissed. Guadeloupe are the surprise qualifiers in this group according to many but they have made significant strides in this competition in 2007 and they are a side to watch. Panama are mired in a huge confidence crisis. They surprisingly didn’t advance past the first round of World Cup qualifiers. They are a huge question mark. Nicaragua are making their Gold Cup debut after knocking out Guatemala.

Favourites: Mexico

Dark horse: Guadeloupe