Soccer Picks - CONCACAF Gold Cup

CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Previews and Picks: Canada and Costa Rica in Action

The tenth edition CONCACAF Gold Cup is upon us, set to kick off on Friday July 3, 2009. And what a competition it promises to be. After turning some heads with a runner-up finish at Confederations Cup, United States is now faced with the task of defending their CONCACAF Gold Cup. Two-time defending champions USA are gunning for their third consecutive and fifth overall Gold Cup. Tired and weary after their journey to South Africa Coach Bob Bradley has decided to send a B squad, featuring young players to answer the call of the nation. The competition boasts a strong field, including seven-time champions Mexico, three-time champions Costa Rica and two-time champions Canada.

Soccer Betting Line:

Canada +160

Jamaica +140

Draw +225

Match Time: 08:00 P.M. Eastern Time, Friday July 3 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: Canada have not won this competition since 2000. Their best result recently was a third place finish in 2007. They recently failed to qualify for the World Cup 2010 in South Africa. Regional success has not been translated to the international arena. Jamaica have never won this Cup and they are entering this competition after failing to qualify for the World Cup 2010. They are however coming off a victory at the Digicel Caribbean Championships (December). The Canucks enter slightly disadvantaged but this matchup is a good one for the Canucks as it is expected to be a close affair. They have a shot at winning this match but given how close Jamaica is tipped, I expect a draw to be the outcome.

Soccer Free Picks: Draw +225

Soccer Betting Line:

Costa Rica -250

El Salvador +550

Draw +300

Match Time: 08:00 P.M. Eastern Time, Friday July 3 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: Costa Rica are a perennial powerhouse in CONCACAF completion and the odds on them in this matchup reflect that sentiment. They enter as huge favourits at -250 to win this match. They are also huge favourites in the competition proper to win the title. They were runners up in 2007 when they lost to the United States in the final. Costa Rica are qualified for the World Cup 2010. They bring a solid team to this competition. They should have little trouble against El Salvador.

Soccer Free Picks: Costa Rica -250