Well here we are, the finals of the Gold Cup.
The last time these two teams met was back in February, a 1-0 win for the Americans. As far as the Gold Cup goes, they met in the semi-finals in 2015. It was there that the Reggae Boyz eliminated the United States from reaching the final. Jamaica then would be offered up as sacrifice to El Tri who beat them handley 3-1.
Now the United States and Jamaica battle for all the marbles.
The Reggae Boyz handled themselves well in this edition of the Gold Cup, including eliminating El Tri in the semi-finals. Though they ‘just’ slipped pass Mexico’s C squad, who was also missing their manager due to suspension.
While Jamaica haven’t played what I’d call “inspiring” football they’ve done what it takes to get themselves into the finals - by grinding out results. Jamaica likes to run a deep sitting 4-4-2, while the U.S. will likely come out in either a 4-4-2 or possibly a 4-2-3-1 setup.
While the USMNT has shown to be lackluster at times throughout the Gold Cup, they rightly deserve to be in the final - especially after kicking Costa Rica to the curb. Though the Ticos will get another shot at the United States later this summer when the Hex resumes for World Cup Qualifying.
What does all this have to do with us at Stumptown Footy? We have three players in the finals and they are the ones to watch.
USMNT: Darlington Nagbe
JAM: Darren Mattocks
JAM: Alvas Powell
While Nagbe came in after the group stage, both Mattocks and Powell have been with their team in the entire tournament. All three players have put in good performances for their respective teams. They’re going to have to put their teammate bond on hold as the two teams duel on the pitch for the crown of CONCACAF.
Lineups:
United States:
This is it! We want the cup! Meet your starting XI for the #GoldCup2017 Final.
— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) July 27, 2017
Lineup notes: https://t.co/Uj2KthadbZ pic.twitter.com/iN9rlrpXqN
Jamaica:
Here's how both teams line up for the #GoldCup2017 Final!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 27, 2017
Coverage starts at 9pm ET on @FS1. #USAvJAM pic.twitter.com/KgCejuxE5a
How to Watch
Venue: Levi's Stadium; Santa Clara, Calif.
Kickoff Time: 9:30 p.m. ET, 6:30 p.m. PT (Actual kick around 9:50)
Available TV: FS1, Univision, Univision Deportes
Available Streams: Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer Match Pass, Univision Deportes, fuboTV (free trial), Sling TV