USA Vs. Ghana Betting Odds And Prediction: Can The US Survive Group Of Death? [POLL]

In one of the most anticipated trilogies since "Lord of the Rings," USA vs. Ghana on Monday should be a game for the ages. Conjuring up images of Ali vs. Frazier or Pacquiao vs. Marquez, the US will meet Ghana for the third time after being eliminated by the Black Stars in two consecutive World Cups. Team USA looks to get off the mat on Monday and secure the ever so important three points in the group.

The US fans and players have been waiting four years for revenge and will come out focused and ready. This is the moment US Coach, Jurgen Klinsmann has been waiting for. He’s changed lineups, cut heroes, and toyed with formations. Finally for all his tinkering and maneuvering, the German tactician is ready for battle.

This match will be much better than their last encounter four years ago and will hinge on the middle of the pitch. If Michael Bradley plays a complete game, the US can win. Expect to see multiple US counter attacks lead by Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore.

On the Black Stars side, the Ayew brothers and Asamoah Gyan should be the most feared as they are athletically capable of picking apart team USA’s young and inexperienced defense.

All experts I’ve spoken to believe that Ghana is the superior team in terms of talent and physicality, and therefore give them the edge in this match. Yet, I will never be one to discount the importance of intelligence, strategy, experience and the heart of a champion; all characteristics that Klinsmann possesses.

Expect a very rain-soaked and tight game with strong counter attack opportunities for both sides. Tim Howard needs to come up big in goal and I believe he will.

Bradley will be focused and ready and outplay his African counterpart in Kevin-Prince Boateng. I see goals for both Altidore and Gyan, with Dempsey perhaps striking one home as well.

My Prediction: My mind tells me this match should end in a 1-1 draw, but my heart tells me America rises to the occasion and gets the winning goal late. 2-1 USA.

Betting odds courtesy of Bovada.lv:

Ghana: Pick Em’ // +160 Moneyline
USA: Pick Em’ // +160 Moneyline
Draw +250