B/R Expert Predictions for 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup Semi-Finals

It is semi-finals time in the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup.

In the previous round, a tight set of games saw the U.S. men's national team edge past El Salvador with a two-goal burst in the first half, while Jamaica saw off Canada 2-1.

Costa Rica set up a tie with the USMNT thanks to a 1-0 win over Panama, and Mexico make up the final four courtesy of a single-goal win over Honduras.

As we said, the games were tense but should we expect more of the same in the next stage?

Our experts have been watching the tournament with a keen eye. Here are their thoughts on who will reach the final.

Costa Rica vs. USA

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Joe Tansey

This is the biggest test for the USMNT in the tournament.

Not only are they looking for some of the fringe players to step up on Saturday, but they'll be seeking to enact revenge on Costa Rica for the horrendous Hex match in San Jose.

This will also be a test to see what both teams have ahead of September's World Cup qualifier at Red Bull Arena.

Costa Rica are depleted because of injuries, but they'll still be a formidable foe for the USMNT.

Prediction: 1-2

First Scorer: Michael Bradley

             

Dean Jones

USA did not manage the complete rout of El Salvador I was expecting, but there were lessons to be taken that could help them here.

The game was perhaps too physical to suit their style last time out, but that is a good test of character. The team rode the challenge and can now try to outplay Costa Rica, who have a stern back line.

The Ticos have managed to keep three clean sheets from four matches, which has helped their misfiring front men.

They have not faced a side with the movement, trickery and key figures of USMNT though, so reaching the final could prove a step too far.

Prediction: 0-2

First Scorer: Clint Dempsey

Mexico vs. Jamaica

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Joe Tansey

Jamaica played Mexico tough in the group stage, and they have enough confidence right now to challenge El Tri again.

Andre Blake has been phenomenal in goal for the Reggae Boyz, and he'll get another shot to prove his mettle against Mexico.

El Tri didn't look great on Thursday against Honduras, but they were stout defensively. As long as they can withstand the threat of Jamaica's fast counters, they should be able to advance to the final.

Prediction: 1-0

First goalscorer: Erick Torres

Dean Jones

Mexico may not have a first-choice international lineup, but the average age of their squad is almost 27 so a lack of footballing experience has not been a particular problem.

More of an issue has been that teams work so hard defensively to deny them the space to be creative in the final third.

Mexico have still managed to shine but not to the extent they would have liked.

Jamaica like to be creative themselves and are pretty impressive on the counter-attack, which could make for an exciting game.

Prediction: 1-2

First goalscorer:  Darren Mattocks