World Football: 5 Reasons To Watch the Gold Cup
As the Gold Cup enters the semifinals, there are many reasons to watch the North American tournament. The winner will play in the 2013 Confederation's Cup, an invaluable experience before the 2014 World Cup.
There were many storylines entering the tournament, and so far, fans have not been supported. The early favorites (Mexico and the United States) are still alive, and they are hoping for another meeting in the final.
Although it isn't a foregone conclusion, the North American juggernauts are looking to assert their dominance once again. However, Honduras and Panama stand in the way. With only two rounds left, I have compiled a list of why you can't miss the remaining matches in the Gold Cup.
United States Continues to Improve
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After disappointing showings in the World Cup and recent international friendlies, the United States are slowly coming together.
Bob Bradley continues to tinker with his lineup, and the players are slowly responding. They started the tournament off well, but after a defeat to Panama and an ugly win against Guadelupe, doubt surrounded the Americans.
Now, after a convincing win over Jamaica, Bradley's side has regained its confidence. The Americans will hope to get revenge against Panama, and hopefully, reclaim the Gold Cup title.
Mexico Continues To Overcome Suspensions
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Even though Mexico is missing five players, the squad continues to dominate. The team advanced from group play with an astounding plus-13 goal differential in three matches. While it took a little more resilience to defeat Guatemala, the Mexicans have looked spectacular.
Honduras is a solid squad, but they don't stand much of a chance against Mexico. Mexico should take care of business once again, hopefully setting up a rematch in the final against the United States.
According to the most recent report, however, the suspended players tested negative on a different drug test. Now, the players' "B" samples (from the original test) will be examined, which could turn back negative.
If these players can return for the Gold Cup, Mexico will be sitting pretty.
Panama Is Looking To Defeat the United States a 2nd Time
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Even though Panama is ranked 67th in the world, they defeated the United States just over a week ago. Now, they are hoping to do it again.
For a team that hadn't played a match for over two months, Panama has looked good in the Gold Cup. After defeating El Salvador in penalty kicks, they will look to beat the United States (again) in order to reach the final.
While it seems unlikely, Panama has played well, and I expect them to give the Americans all they can handle.
Chicharito Is Emerging as North America's Best Player
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Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez had a great season for Manchester United. In his first Premier League season, the Mexican striker scored 13 goals for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.
Now, he is becoming a superstar for his home country. Hernandez leads the Gold Cup with six goals, and he will (almost) surely add to that tally. The striker finds ways to score goals, and his knack for finding the net is addicting to watch.
While he has not earned the title yet, Chicharito is slowly emerging as the best player in North America, and it won't be long until he has that title completely.
United States Is Looking for Revenge from 2009
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In the 2009 Gold Cup final, Mexico embarrassed the United States. Due to the Confederation's Cup, most American starters did not play in the match, but they were still shellacked by their southern rivals.
The United States has not forgotten the 5-0 drubbing. This Gold Cup has been dedicated for avenging that defeat, and the United States is hoping to beat their Mexican rivals in order to obtain the title.
While the title will be sweet enough, the Americans will feel even better if they are able to defeat Mexico for the crown. As for Mexico, they want to prove they can defeat a United States squad at full strength.
This bad blood is exactly why the remaining matches will be worth watching.
