Tuesday’s World Cup meeting between the USA and Iran is a high stakes game for both teams, as only the winner can advance from group-stage play to the knockout round.
Odds have favored the U.S. to come out on top from the beginning, and they’re even shorter now at -107. But Iran already has one upset under its belt, defeating Wales in its last match to create the win-or-go-home stakes of this game.
Though Iran has outscored USA 4-1 this tournament, three of those goals came in stoppage time, including two in their stunning win over Wales. The other two goals were footnotes in a 6-2 blowout at the hands of England.
Those six goals allowed came on seven shots on goal, a remarkably high percentage. The U.S., though, held England scoreless with just three shots on goal and nearly did the same to Wales before a late penalty on Gareth Bale. That defense is why I’m picking the Americans to prevail.
The offense is due for better luck after blowing some good opportunities against England. But I’m expecting Iran to have a harder time finding the back of the net.
Prince’s Pick: USA wins 2-0
