Wales get their first World Cup campaign in a generation underway in a trans-Atlantic clash against the USA. Ryan Liberty previews.
To Win Match
USA 27/20 | Draw 21/10 | Wales 23/10
The USA’s young side will need to play well if they are to justify their favourites tag against a vastly experienced Welsh outfit on Friday evening.
They are only one of four teams to qualify from the CONCACAF region. The States boast a young side and bring exciting attacking energy to the game. Under manager Gregg Berhalter, they will not change their approach to games, and I think if they intend to get out of this group, they will need to have a crack against everyone.
National captain Christian Pulisic obviously stands out, but they have some talented in youngsters in Brenden Aaronson, Giovanni Reyna, Tyler Adams, and DeAndre Yedlin.
It’s strange to think that this will only be Wales’ second World Cup appearance. They boast a long heritage of World Class players, with their recent golden generation seeing them reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016.
Personally, I don’t see Wales repeating their heroics of 2016 at World Cup. They are simply too reliant on their captain Gareth Bale up front. They don’t have goals coming from any other avenue and when you factor in the idea that this reliance is placed on a player who is over the hill – it doesn’t to paint a pretty picture.
Rob Page has already alluded to the idea that his side’s defensive efforts will be key when trying to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. I would suspect this is based on the knowledge that his side struggles on the other end.
Verdict: USA 27/20
I think the United States of America are the better side. Yes, a young side at the World Cup might be overawed by the pressure, but there is definitely value on the Yanks here. Get on at 27/20.
