Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the key fixtures of the second round in the CONCACAF Gold Cup group stage will take place on Friday at the Q2 Stadium, where Saudi Arabia will face off against the United States. I'm backing a bet on goals in this clash with an attractive odds offer.
Match preview
Saudi Arabia approach the second round in high spirits after a narrow 1-0 victory over Haiti in their opening match. Coach Mancini has instilled an Italian tactical discipline with a focus on defense and counter-attacks, which has markedly improved their results. Although their opponents took more shots, Saudi Arabia rarely allowed any truly dangerous chances near their goal.
Having converted a penalty midway through the first half, Saudi Arabia confidently claimed all three points and now aim to challenge the group’s stronger sides. Notably, Saudi Arabia have lost just one of their last six matches, winning four, and continue to deliver solid results despite lacking global superstars.
The USA kicked off their campaign with a commanding 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in the first round. This performance highlighted the firepower of the American attack and their ability to control the game for the full 90 minutes. Despite some struggles in front of goal during the qualifiers, the US side looked in top form at the start of this tournament and now lead the group with authority.
The squad is truly diverse, featuring young talents ready for major breakthroughs alongside experienced players with European pedigree, making the USA one of the tournament favorites. Manager Mauricio Pochettino has implemented a dynamic attacking style and high pressing, already yielding positive results. In this match, the Americans are clear favorites and will look not only to win, but to put on another high-scoring display as they did in their opener.
Probable lineups
- Saudi Arabia: Youssef, Mayrashi, Al-Amri, Al-Johani, Abdulrahman, Kanno, Kadesh, Al-Dawsari, Al-Buraikan, Al-Dawsari, Al-Oboud
- USA: Freese; Harriel, M. Robinson, McKenzie, Arfsten; De la Torre, Adams; Sullivan, P. Aaronson, Wright; Agyemang
Match facts and head-to-head
- The last meeting between these teams was in September 2022 and ended in a 0-0 draw
- The "both teams to score" bet has never won in three previous encounters
- Only one match between these sides saw over 2.5 goals
Prediction
Given the current form and the USA’s powerful attacking lineup, they enter as favorites. However, Saudi Arabia’s disciplined defense could make this contest more tense than expected. Ultimately, much will depend on how efficiently the Americans convert their chances. Our optimal bet here is on “Under 2.5 goals” at odds of 1.79.
