Gold Cup Final 2009 tips and live stream - USA v Mexico

Americans are the favorite in the Gold Cup final as they face Mexico.

It all comes down to one game. Additional time notwithstanding, ninety minutes stand between glory and either Mexico or the United States. This year's CONCACAF Gold Cup has been filled with tension, drama, and, at times, stunning play from some of the tournament's star players. There have been some upsets, some immature displays of petulance from players and management, and, in Canada, reason to be optimistic for the future of soccer across the country. Ultimately, though, it all comes down to Sunday's final which, for the second consecutive time, will be contested between the USA and Mexico.

As expected, the USA overcame Honduras in their semi-final clash, with goals from Clarence Goodson and Kenny Cooper ensuring a relatively straightforward route to the tournament's showpiece match in New Jersey this weekend. The margin of victory could, and perhaps should, have been more significant but in the end it didn't matter; the strong USA defence ensured that the less than clinical attack, which was painfully on show towards the end of the first half, didn't prove too detrimental.

Mexico's route to the final wasn't quite as simple; they had to rely upon penalty kicks to secure victory. Costa Rica were defeated 5-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Like the USA, Mexico suffered from a less than potent attack, particularly as the second half gained momentum, and Costa Rica should have been out of contention far earlier in the clash.

The side's defence wasn't quite as convincing as the USA's and this will be an issue the management will want to rectify prior to Sunday's match. This said, some of the midfield play, which was characterised at times by a cohesion not seen in Mexico's early tournament games, should serve them well against the USA.

The USA are currently the favorites to win the CONCACAF Gold Cup at Mexico's expense and are available to back at odds of -141 (100/141); all odds Betfair). However, Mexico, at odds of +138 (69/50) could be great value for the win. They seem to be hitting their stride at just the right time and the Mexican side will arguably be more desperate and motivated for the win than the Americans.

The two teams have played with different styles throughout the tournament and Mexico's style of play may find its ideal partner in the USA.

Go to Betfair to bet on CONCACAF soccer and the Gold Cup.

Note: you can watch the 2009 Gold Cup Finals streamed live on Sunday at bet365 > Sports > live streaming. Please pre-register on the site before the kick off to secure your free live stream.

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