#1 Posted: 8/14/2012 12:55:12 AM This match takes place Wednesday but I'm baffled by the current line...Mexico ML (-144) or Mexico .75 (-115). Here is why I think Mexico should be money in the bank:
The US is 0-23-1 all-time in Mexico.
This game will be played at dirty, oxygen deprived, sold-out Azteca Stadium
To add fuel to the fire, Mexico will be honoring their Gold Medal winning team prior to the start of the game.
This game is classified as a "friendly" but there is really no such thing as friendly in games between the US & Mexico.
While not fielding their entire "A" squad, Mexico still have called in Chicharito, Guardado, Ochoa, Barrera, de Nigris, Zavala, Torres Nilo, Rodriguez, etc...a very respectable squad. Also, many of the players called in play in Mexico and therefore travel won't be difficult.
Meanwhile, the US is missing keys players such as Dempsey, Altidore, Bradley, Bocanegra, and Cherundolo, among others. Those that are coming in are making the long trip from Europe and there are also a few questionnable MLS call-ups. Matt Besler, Alan Gordon, and Steven Beitashour all have yet to be capped and are out of their league playing their first national team game at Azteca.
Among the six U.S. defenders called in, none have more than 6 caps. This lack of experience when playing in Mexico is not good.
I'd love to be wrong and see the U.S. win (heck, a draw would be a victory), but to me this can only be viewed as a multi-goal victory for the Mexicans. |