2011 Gold Cup: United States vs. Guadeloupe Preview, Group C

The only option tonight for the U.S. men's team should be a win against Guadeloupe. Many thought a victory against Panama would be the result of last Saturday's game, but Panama had something different on their minds.

The Americans looked flat to start the game and decided to rev their engines well after Panama took the 2-0 lead.

The U.S. had many opportunities to score but just couldn't get the job done. It looked like after the Clarence Goodson header that the equalizer would be coming shortly, but many failed corners, set pieces, and ground attacks became the norm.

It was a very unfortunate game and one that the U.S. needs to rebound from.

A loss against Guadeloupe means they miss the quarterfinals and a draw, plus a Panama victory, would most likely set up a quarterfinal match against Mexico.

A win, the most likely outcome, will result in a quarterfinal match against either El Salvador or Jamaica, depending on the outcome of Panama and Canada.

Guadeloupe has proven that they can contend with the other teams in Group C, but they just don't have the talent to get over the hump and get the victories.

As for the U.S., many lineup changes are thought to be made due to the poor play against Panama.

Head coach Bob Bradley needs to find a combination that can perform better than the recent lineups throughout this tournament. If the U.S. team continues to start games sluggish, fans should not expect much from this squad.

Look for defender Tim Ream to get booted and for a more offensive-minded team to come out against Guadeloupe.

Guadeloupe has a very beatable defense and one the USA should handle quite easily.

My final score prediction: United States 3, Guadeloupe 0.