The Stars and Stripes eye securing a big lead before heading into the second leg.
The first leg of quarter-final fixtures of the CONCACAF Nations League takes us to the National Stadium Independence Park in Jamaica where the hosts are scheduled to lock horns against USA.
Jamaica emerged as the table toppers of League A Group B in a tight group alongside teams like Honduras, Cuba, Nicaragua, French Guiana and Trinidad Tobago. With two wins and two draws, Jamaica were the sole unbeaten side in the group. After a catastrophic Copa America campaign, the world has seen Jamaica’s redemption. They would be keen to make the most of their home advantage before playing the away fixture.
USA‘s recent form is a bit concerning as they have won a solitary game in their last five fixtures. They would be keen to turn around their fortune and get back on winning ways as early as possible. America’s previous fixture saw them going down to Mexico as goals from Raul Jimenez and Cesar Huerta secured all three points for Mexico. Mauricio Pochhetino will be hoping to take a lead before they head home for the final leg of the quarter-finals fixture.
Kick-Off:
Friday, 15 Nov 2024, at 06:30 AM IST
Location: National Stadium Independence Park, Jamaica
Form:
Jamaica (in all competitions): D-W-W-D-L
USA (in all competitions): L-W-D-L-L
Players to Watch
Ethan Pinnock (Jamaica):
Ethan Rupert Pinnock, a towering 6’4″ centre-back born in Lambeth, England, has carved a remarkable path to Premier League football. Starting with Dulwich Hamlet, where he made 159 appearances, Pinnock showcased his resilience and skill.
After a stint at Forest Green Rovers, he moved to Barnsley, playing a crucial role in their defence before signing with Brentford in 2019, where he has become a stalwart with over 170 appearances. Eligible for international duty with Jamaica, Pinnock has earned 17 caps for the Jamaican national team, bringing his commanding presence and experience to both club and country.
Josh Sargent (USA)
Joshua Thomas Sargent, born in O’Fallon, Missouri, is a versatile American forward known for his strong attacking skills, playing as a forward or winger for Norwich City in the EFL Championship and the United States national team. Standing at 6’1″, Sargent began his youth career at St. Louis Scott Gallagher before training at IMG Academy and joining Werder Bremen’s academy in 2017.
He made an impressive start with Werder Bremen II, scoring seven goals in 12 matches, and soon joined the first team, netting 13 times in 72 appearances. Since joining Norwich City in 2021, he has emerged as a key player, with 35 goals in 101 appearances. Internationally, Sargent has represented the United States from the U17 level, making history as the youngest U.S. player to score at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017. With 27 caps and five goals for the senior national team, he remains a pivotal figure for both club and country.
Match Facts
- USA have nearly 60% win accuracy against their upcoming opponents.
- They have won just a solitary game out of their last five matches.
- Jamaica have won two fixtures in their last five matches.
Betting Tips & Odds
- Tip 1: Match to end in a draw – 23/10 with Bet365
- Tip 2: Michail Antonio to be the first scorer – 17/2 with Bet365
- Tip 3: Jamaica 2-2 USA – 14/1 with Skybet
Injury and Team News
Jamaica have no injury concerns for the upcoming game.
Similarly, USMNT’s Mauricio Pochettino will also have the luxury to pick his best combination from a fully fit and available side.
Head-to-Head
Total Matches: 33
Jamaica won: 03
USA won: 20
Draws: 10
Predicted Lineups
Jamaica Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Blake (GK); Lembikisa, Holgate, Pinnock, Leigh; Palmer, Latibeaudiere; Campbell, Magee, Gray; Antonio
USA Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
Turner (GK); Scally, McKenzie, Ream; Musah, Busio, Morris, Robinson; Aaronson, Pulisic; Sargent
Match Prediction
Jamaica are in sublime form while USA’s recent form has been concerning. Looking at the contrasting forms, we expect the visitors to clinch a hard-fought draw against a formidable Jamaican side.
Prediction: Jamaica 2-2 USA
Telecast
USA: Universo, TNT, TRUTV
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