The CONCACAF region has three matches on Wednesday as qualification begins winding down. Trinidad & Tobago lost on Saturday and their chances are very low while the United States kept their chances in great shape with a home win over El Salvador. Both teams have a lot at stake as they face each other on Wednesday, September 9, 2009. Here’s a preview and prediction of the match.
Trinidad & Tobago v United States – CONCACAF WCQ – Wednesday September 9, 2009 – 6:30 PM (EST) – Video Preview
The United States had an up and down match against El Salvador but should have confidence heading to play at Trinidad & Tobago. T&T has a 1-1-1 record at home while the USA is 0-1-2 on the road. The Americans should be the favorites as they are the stronger team and Trinidad & Tobago have struggled in qualification matches.
USA manager Bob Bradley started two young stars as his forwards, Jozy Altidore and Charlie Davies, who impressed on Saturday against El Salvador. If not for some horrible officiating, Altidore would have had two goals instead of one while Davies continually threatened the defense with his speed. The trouble for the USA was in their defending as their defense looked a little lost without regular centerback Oguchi Onyewu (was out for yellow cards) who will return for Wednesday’s match.
In the midfield, the United States will have their regular starts of Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, and Michael Bradley. For Trinidad & Tobago, their biggest threat was Dwight Yorke, but he has retired and will be an assistant coach. They will still have a chance at home but if the United States plays to their ability, it should be a win for the away team.
It could be an interesting match if the home side takes an early lead but Bradley should have his team ready for the match. Altidore and Davies will give the T&T defense trouble along with Landon Donovan who’s been in great form this season. Prediction – USA wins 3-1
