By Matt Smith
The final time the 2 sides went head-to-head in a aggressive sport, it was Costa Rica who got here out on prime with a 2-0 victory again in 2022. The USA have gained all of their final 5 residence conferences with this weekend’s opponents, beforehand securing a 3-0 win in a pleasant earlier this yr.
Crew information
Pochettino can be seeking to construct on the USA’s most up-to-date performances after successful their three group stage video games within the Gold Cup. Malik Tillman and Patrick Agyemang each struck in opposition to Haiti final day trip, so we might see them retain their place within the beginning XI.
Costa Rica struggled within the group stage, narrowly beating Suriname, who’re ranked 137th on the earth, 4-3. Veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas remains to be going robust on the age of 38, and he ought to begin between the sticks.
The USA resolute within the competitors
Pochettino’s aspect have conceded simply 0.3 targets per sport within the competitors thus far, and the USA boss has them enjoying thrilling soccer within the Gold Cup. No workforce has averaged extra possession per sport, with the USA conserving a whopping 67.6% of the ball.
The USA have additionally created extra massive possibilities, had extra touches contained in the opposition field, and extra pictures heading in the right direction than another workforce within the Gold Cup, so we’re anticipating an attacking show from the house workforce on this fixture.
Holding their self-discipline key for Costa Rica
No aspect have been awarded extra yellow playing cards than Costa Rica within the competitors thus far. Their fiery fashion has paid dividends after they certified for the knockout rounds, though conceding three in opposition to Suriname final day trip was a trigger for concern.
Costa Rica have appeared moderately robust defensively exterior of their most up-to-date efficiency, conceding simply 1.3 targets per sport. We’re anticipating a dominant show from the USA, with Costa Rica averaging simply 44.4% possession within the event.
Tillman the one to observe
PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder has not solely been a standout for the USA, however within the Gold Cup total as effectively. The 23-year-old is the highest goalscorer within the competitors, discovering the again of the web on three events.
His total performances for his nation have been spectacular, and he’s beginning to turn into a daily for the USA. After a robust season in Holland with PSG, scoring 16 league targets, Tillman is the one to observe on this sport as he seems to be to proceed his wonderful type for Pochettino’s aspect.
Prediction
Contemplating the USA’s current type, it’s troublesome to see previous a house victory on this sport. We’re going for a 3-1 win to Pochettino’s males, with Tillman to get his identify on the scoresheet as soon as once more.
(Cowl picture from IMAGO)
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