Other Concacaf World Cup Qualifer results

As much fun as it is to only focus on the great show the US put on yesterday, there were ten other Concacaf Qualifiers over the weekend. So how did they turn out? Most of them went as expected, but there were a couple shocks.

Trinidad and Tobago 1-2 Bermuda - T&T get shocked at home by Bermuda. Could the team's dream of back-to-back World Cups crash out next weekend? If so, will Jack Warner get any heat for the way he destroyed the team?

Haiti 0-0 Netherlands Antilles - Haiti are the reigning Caribbean champions and Antilles held them on the road. Not as big an upset as T&T, but still something to watch.

Suriname 1-0 Guyana - The battle of the South American members of Concacaf ended in a minor surprise as Suriname beat the seeded Guyanese. The return leg is going to be fun.

Grenada 2-2 Costa Rica - This was a much tougher start then Costa Rica wanted. On the plus side, they did come back from two goals down to get the tie, but will this be enough for coach Hernán Medford to keep his job?

Panama 1-0 El Salvador - Panama has to be worried going into their second leg. The rains slowed this game down, which worked for El Salvador.

Belize 0-2 Mexico - Mexico continued their tradition of under performing against teams they do not respect. This match was never in question as Belize pretty much just sat 10 players behind the ball, but it is still a poor game by El Tri.

Guatemala 6-0 Saint Lucia - Looks like the US will have to deal with the little fish again as Carlos Ruiz netted four in this one.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 0-3 Canada - Ali Gerba was the hero for Canada as he netted two. Canada should have an easy time at home this Friday.

Jamaica 7-0 Bahamas - The Reggae Boys just smashed their way into group play. Six different players, including Andy Williams, scored so this was an all over effort.

Puerto Rico 2-2 Honduras - This result means Honduras advances to the first group phase with a 6-2 aggregate win. Puerto Rico went down a goal in the 22', but tied is a few minutes later. They then went up one right before the half, but it was not meant to be as Wigan Athletic midfielder Wilson Palacios knotted it up in the 52'.

Cuba and Antigua and Barbuda play their first leg tomorrow.

FC Dallas interviews SMU's Hyndman for coaching job

What would a FC Dallas search for a new coach be without Schellas Hyndman? Hyndman has coached SMU's men's soccer team since 1984 and is highly respected in the Dallas area as well as college soccer, thus the reason FCD always look his way when the top job is vacant.

He was previously linked to club after the Jeffries dismissal (2003) and the Clarke toss (2006), so is the third time the charm?

In his 24 years at SMU, the team has never had a losing season and are constantly one of the better college sides, however they have never won or even played for a national championship. Hyndman would bring with him a good knowledge of the up and coming college players as well as a divine love of the 4-4-2 formation, but is that enough for MLS?

With the league's hirer profile and bigger names, I'm not sure giving the controls to someone without professional level management experience is the best idea (for a explanation of this, look no further then Steve Morrow).

The next manager of FCD needs to be someone that can come in and command respect from the players, but I'm not sure Hyndman, for all his positives, is the person who can do that.

By the way, former FCD manager and current Puerto Rican national team coach Colin Clarke saw his side fall 4-0 to Honduras last night in World Cup Qualifying. The second leg will take place on the 14th in Puerto Rico.

Olympic Qualifying - Freddy Adu's and team US's are going to Beijing

US 3-0 Canada

This was the game US fans had been waiting for. Finally the play on the field reflected the talent in the roster as Canada was no match for the U23 US men. And although Freddy Adu will deservingly get the headlines, that second goal was pure art, but he was far from alone out there. Altidore, Edu, Holden, McCarty, Spector, Orozco, Wynne, Kljestan, Sturgiz and Seitz all provided key plays that resulted in this victory

Yes, there were little missteps that could still use some tightening, but in the end, last night was as close to a perfect match as anyone can expect to come on the international level. Makes me wonder if all the folks who bashed Peter Nowak after the US's sad sack routine against Cuba last Tuesday are ready to apologize.

As far as Canada is concerned, they have talent, but they were no match for the US on the night. Combine this result with their failure to get out of their group at last summer's U20 World Cup and it points to a youth system that needs some work.

So the US is returning to the Olympics and as of this point, they look like a team that has a chance at a medal.

Goals:
US - Adu 27', 47', Kljestan 78'


Guatemala 0(5)-(6)0 Honduras

And the other Concacaf spot goes to Honduras. Although the game was not as pleasing to watch as the later match, there was plenty of good soccer on display. Both teams would have deserved the win, so it is only fitting that it went to pk.

The question I want to know is what was Honduran goalie Kevin Hernandez yelling before every Guatemalan shot? Something tells me it wasn't words of encouragement.

Toronto wants Amado Guevara

Toronto FC hopes to strengthen their midfield by landing former MLS MVP Amado Guevara. Guevara was last seen in MLS getting the boot by Chivas USA coach Preki due to poor play and a horrible attitude.

Guevara is a very talented player however he only shows it when he is happy. If he is not fully satisfied with his situation, too often his play suffers.

After spending the last year with Honduran club CD Motagua, perhaps Guevara will return to MLS with a fresh view of the league. And maybe the great atmosphere that rolls through the crowds in Toronto will make him feel welcomed. After all, Mo Johnson and Guevara had a good relationship in New York, so maybe it will work again north of the border*. If so, this might be the move the puts TFC in playoff contention.

*I know Mo is no longer coach of TFC, but as Director of Football, he still plays a big role in what happens on the field.

Olympic Qualifying - Does the US even want to win?

US vs. Honduras
7pm ET/4pm PT
TV: Fox Soccer Channel

With Panama dispatching Cuba 4-1, the US is assured of advancing to the knockout round, now the question is what spot will they take? If they can pull of a win against a decent Honduras side, they will take first. Anything less and they stay in the second spot.

Over in group B last night, both Mexico and Canada lost meaning that the best either side can hope for is a second place finish. So if the US do not win tonight, the earliest they could face either North American team is the final.

Does that mean they should play for the tie? In a word, no. Guatemala did not beat Mexico on a fluke, they played the better game. Same goes for Haiti over Canada. With neither Mexico or Canada looking fantastic, facing them might be the best way to go. Still, like all tournaments done over a short period of time, a good team one day can be a crap team the next.

Which brings us to the US and Honduras. With both teams already in the knockout phase, don't expect many stars. Such enough, here is the lineup:

---------------Cervi---------------
Hill----Ianni----Orozco---Freeman

Zizzo---Holden-Kljestan--Gaven

-------Findley----Barrett--------

It is great to see Holden in the middle as he was outstanding on Thursday night. If he can combine with Findley and help provide some cover for fellow Houston Dynamo Ianni, the US will be alright on the right side.

Kljestan has also proved himself during this tournament, so he and Holden will be expected to be the fire for the team.

It looks like Peter Nowak is using this game as a test of yet another formation, so I don't think he is overly worried about the result. I even think that if Charlie Davies was not riding a yellow, he would be included in it.

Overall, I'm guessing the team will take a win, but they are more interested in seeing how different players react with each other.

Olympic Qualifying - Can the US pull it together?

US - Panama
8pm ET
TV - Fox Soccer Channel

The US U-23s return to the pitch tonight looking to improve on their poor form from Tuesday. Although the team does not have to win to make it into the next round, anything short of a full three points will make it very difficult to sneak by.

With group mates Honduras and Panama all but assured of three points from their remaining games with Cuba, the US is looking at a -2 point weight around their necks (this is because the US only earned 1 point from their Cuba experience. Add to this the goal difference both Honduras and Panama are likely to run up against Cuba and the US has an even bigger mess on their hands).

To make up these points, the team must figure out a way to control the midfield and finish the chances that appear in front of them. My personal suggestion, don't let Freddy Adu be the only quality player on the pitch.

Panama didn't show much in their match against Honduras other then a great ability to lose the ball in the final third (to be fair, Honduras showed much the same), so Nowak and his squad should have time to settle and make some dangerous plays.

Still there is the question of the wing play. With both Davis and Findley having bad nights in the opening match (and with just 48 hours off since their last game), Nowak will need to find a way to seal these gaps.

With Panama likely to play a very defensive game, Altidore is going to need a lot of help up top. If the US can use their speed and overall better stock of players to sneak balls into the box, a full three points will be their reward. However, if they continue to turn the ball over and fail to show a good center, don't be surprised to see the team end the night tied with Cuba on points.

Concerning the other game on the night, I wonder if Cuba will be able to keep Honduras under 7 goals. With most of their starting 11 now calling the US home, it's going to be a crap night for the team.

2008 Concacaf Olympic Qualifying Schedule

Concacaf has two tickets to Beijing for the Olympics this August and eight nations want them. To get there, teams will need to take one of the top two spots in their group and then make it past the semifinals. Both teams in the final on March 20th will represent the region in China.

The Concacaf tournament is taking place in America this time around with games in Tampa, LA and Nashville (Tickets Tampa, LA, Nashville).

Here is the full schedule:

Group A

Team	W	L	T	Pts	GD
USA	2	0	1	7	+2
Honduras	2	1	0	6	+2
Panama	1	2	0	3	+1
Cuba	0	2	1	1	-5

Group B

Team	W	L	T	Pts	GD
Guatemala	2	1	0	6	-3
Canada	1	1	1	4	+4
Mexico	1	1	1	4	+3
Haiti	1	2	0	3	-4

Date	Matches	Venues	Kickoff Times
March 11	Panama 0-1 Honduras	Tampa, Fl	5:30 ET
March 11	USA 1-1 Cuba	Tampa, Fl	8:00 ET
March 12	Haiti 0-1 Guatemala	Carson, Ca	5:30pm PT
March 12	Canada 1-1 Mexico	Carson, Ca	8:00pm PT
March 13	Honduras 2-0 Cuba	Tampa, Fl	5:30pm ET
March 13	USA 1-0 Panama	Tampa, Fl	8:00pm ET
March 14	Canada 1-2 Haiti	Carson, Ca	5:30pm PT
March 14	Mexico 1-2 Guatemala	Carson, Ca	8:00pm PT
March 15	Cuba 1-4 Panama	Tampa, Fl	5:30pm ET
March 15	USA 1-0 Honduras	Tampa, Fl	8:00pm ET
March 16	Guatemala 0-5 Canada	Carson, Ca	5:30pm PT
March 16	Mexico 5-1 Haiti	Carson, Ca	8:00pm PT
March 20	Guatemala 0(5)-(6)0 Honduras	Nashville, Tn	5pm CT
March 20	USA 3-0 Canada	Nashville, Tn	8pm CT
March 23	Guatemala 0(3)-(5)0 Canada	Nashville, Tn	1pm CT
March 23	USA 0-1 Honduras	Nashville, Tn	4pm CT

Fox Soccer Channel (English) and ESPN Deportes (Spanish) will air matches live in the US while ESPN360.com will steam them on the internet.

Gold Cup Quarterfinals Previews and Predictions

At long last the Concacaf Gold Cup is at the knockout phase is here. The eight teams playing this weekend are a great mix of what Concacaf has to offer. We have the regulars (USA, Mexico, Costa Rica), the up and comers (Canada, Honduras) and a little surprise (Guadeloupe). None of these games look like blowouts in the making so we should be in for a great couple days of soccer.

Panama vs. USA
Saturday - 4pmET/1pm PT - Foxborough, Mass
TV: Fox Soccer Channel (English), Envision (Spanish)
Panama learned something against Mexico that I think they will use against the US, attack, attack, attack. Just sitting back and waiting for the pain is not a way to win a match against a big team because if you give them enough chances, they are going to beat you. Even with Panama missing some key players (including their captain Rolando Escobar), they have some strong skills in the midfield and some keen eyes on the attack. Also, they know how to beat defenders on the run thus either getting a shot or forcing a foul. The one weakness in their game is their backline as they often miss their marks.

The US will need a great day in the midfield to disrupt the Panamanian service, but they will also need their defense to stay close without over reaching. The US has given away some dangerous fouls in their final third, but has not yet paid for it. If they give Panama a few of those, it will be a long day for the Nats.

The offense for the red, white and blue is coming together. They still don't make the best use out of the set pieces (I think they only have one goal from a set piece so far), which could become a big factor if Panama does decide to bunker down, but they are getting better at setting each other up during the actual run of play. That said, the last game saw a number of good balls sent in by Beasley, but too often their were either not enough US players in the box or they were not in the correct position to connect.

Predicted lineup:
GK: Howard
D: Bornstein, Parkhurst, DeMerit, Simek
M: Beasley, Clark, Feilhaber, Ralston
F: Donovan, Dempsey
I would not start Gooch because he is riding a yellow card and Panama seems like a team that could easily get him another card. Also, I would go with Clark instead of Bradley in the middle because he pushes the ball forward better.

Predictions: Me Panama 0-2 US, Wife Panama 1-2 US

Canada vs. Guatemala
Saturday - 1pm ET/10am PT - Foxborough, Mass
TV: Telefutra (Spanish)
There will be two very different styles of soccer on display in this one as Canada likes to play wide-open games while Guatemala does everything they can do to stop a soccer match from actually taking place. There is talent on Guatemala's team, but their bunker and foul while Carlos Ruiz takes a dive routine wastes it.

Talking about Ruiz, he is really the only offensive threat his side has, so if Canada control him and don't get frustrated by his total disrespect for the game he plays, they should be in good shape. However, Ruiz has this way of sneaking into space and pushing defenders off him. If he gets a ref who turns a blind eye to these sorts of things, he will cause some problems.

The Maple Leafs will need a great day from their double De's in the middle. DeGuzman and DeRosario will need to control the flow and prevent Guatemala from stopping every play at the half way line. Also, Canada's biggest weakness might end up coming in handy during this match. Many of their first touches are weak and often result in the ball getting away from players for a moment. Since Guatemala usually kneecaps players on their first touch, they might end up getting cards because the ball will not be there to provide an excuse for this fouls.

This one will get physical, but if Canada says calm, they will advance.
Prediction: Me Canada 1-0 Guatemala, Wife Canada 2-1 Guatemala

Honduras vs. Guadeloupe
Sunday 3pm ET/12pm PT - Houston, Tx
TV: Telefutra (Spanish)
Los Catrachos has got to be feeling great about their chances in this one. Guadeloupe had a wonderful first match, got a little lucky in the second and fell flat in their third as the team started looking exhausted. The one bit of good news is they have had five days off so they should be in a better place, but their depth is still lacking. To pull out a shock result, they will need to control the attacking duo of Carlos Pavón and Carlos Costly but I haven't seen anything in their defense that suggests such a result is possible.

It is always fun to cheer for the little guy and Guadeloupe, with a population of about 400,000, is the littlest of all, but sadly, I think Sunday will see them get crushed.
Predictions: Honduras 3-1 Guadeloupe, Wife Honduras 1-2 Guadeloupe

Mexico vs. Costa Rica
Sunday 6pm ET/3pm PT - Houston, Tx
TV: Univision (Spanish)
This might just be the game that decides coach Hugo Sanchez’s future. El Tri has looked bad through all three of the group matches and is very lucky to not be facing the USA today. Since they have a very talented squad one must wonder why they are not doing better. That's where Hugo pops in.

Costa Rica has been third best team in Concacaf for a number of years now but their age is starting to show. The flair and speed on the ball is not what it once was so the question is do they have enough for one more run? Los Ticos has the benefit of a Mexican side in disarray and missing a couple starters due to card accumulation. However, they will also have to face Oswaldo Sanchez in goal.

If Mexico's backline continues their resent tradition of leaving huge holes open, Costa Rica will get some great chances, but they will have to place them just right because Sanchez might not have a lot of class, but he can stop just about anything except perfectly placed shots.

Mexico will probably find a way to pull this one out but I think there is going to be one upset this weekend and it will happen in Houston.
Prediction: Me Mexico 1-2 Costa Rica (in overtime), Wife Mexico 2-0 Costa Rica

The quarterfinal winners will advance to the semi-finals in Chicago on Thursday night. The winners from Foxborough will place each other followed by the winners from Houston.

Galaxy want Honduras goal scoring monster Pavón

Los Angeles is looking to make another offensive move as they are after last night's star Carlos Pavón. Pavón knotted home four goals against Panama and almost had a couple more.

It seems that his striking partner Carlos Costly, the star of the Mexico match, is also getting a look over by MLS.

Pavon, 33, who plays for Real DC Espana in Honduras, and Costly, 24, who plays for GKS Belchatow in Poland, have both been scrutinized by MLS, with Pavon of particular interest to the goal-hungry Galaxy.

LA would be very lucky to land Pavón as it would give them a huge extra punch up top. As far as Costly, if he ends up in MLS, the league will be better because of it.

2007 Gold Cup Quarterfinals Schedule

The group stage is done and now it is knockout time. All four of these matches should be interesting to watch because even the underdogs have pulled off a number of surprises.

If you are in or around Foxborough or Houston, why not go see the games in person. One ticket gets you into both quarterfinal games on the day, plus in Foxborough you will also get a MLS match featuring the New England Revolution. It could make a great Father's Day gift.

Anyway, here is a quick look at the four games:
Quarterfinals Day 1 - Saturday - Foxborough
Tickets
Canada (A1) v Guatemala (B2)
1pm ET/10am PT - TV: Telefutra (Spanish)
Canada surprised a few with their top-flight finish in Group C, but still have a few holes to fill. Guatemala played their regular ugly style of soccer and managed to squeeze through. If there is a good ref, Canada should be alright but if the Blue & White get to crap tackle their way around the pitch and do everything they can to prevent a soccer match from breaking out, it will be difficult for the maple leafs.

USA (B1) v Panama (C3)
4pm ET/ 1pm PT - TV: Fox Soccer Channel (English), Univision (Spanish)
The way Mexico has been playing, it would have been something wonderful to face them on Saturday instead of a real hot Panama side. The US should not undervalue Panama, even with two players out due to reds. They will pressure the defense and can be tricky in the middle. If you live in the Northeast and missed out on Germany last year, this match might just make up for it.


Quarterfinals Day 2 - Sunday - Houston
Tickets
Honduras (C1) v Guadeloupe (A3)
3pm ET/12pm PT - TV: Telefutra (Spanish)
Honduras is clicking while Guadeloupe is fading. Of all four matches, this one has the greatest likelihood of being a blowout, but it might also provide a bit of a surprise.

Mexico (C2) v Costa Rica (A2)
6pm ET/3pm PT - TV: Univision (Spanish)
If only Costa Rica had a few younger players with good experience, because that could really come in handy. Mexico has been the biggest underperformer of the tournament and with two or three players out due to yellow card accumulation; this is going to be a difficult outing for El Tri.

Group C over - Honduras wins it all, Mexico stays away from USA

Mexico 1-0 Panama
You have to hand it to Panama, they came out ready to play and had a few chances to make the upset happen but Mexico was able to hold thanks to the work of Oswaldo Sanchez in goal. Mexico's defense still looks weak and out of form while their midfield got tied up, but Carlos Salcido was able to punch in a shot to give El Tri the lead. Panama kept pushing for the equalizer, even after Rolando Escobar got sent off with a red. However, once they lost a second player, Roman Torres, to a red card, it was obvious tonight was not the night for Panama. Still a wonderful effort and if Sanchez did not have a perfect match, the outcome would have been very different. Mexico is still looking beatable.
Goal:
Mexico: Carlos Salcido (1) 58'

Video Highlights:


Honduras 5-0 Cuba
Cuba had holes everywhere and Honduras exploited them. The score pretty much tells you the story as Carlos Pavón exploded for four goals to lead his team to the top spot in Group C and a date with Guadeloupe on Sunday in Houston.
Goals:
Honduras: Carlos Pavón (1) 3', (2) 12', (3) 42', (4) 53', Amado Guevara (2) pk 90'

Video Highlights:


Here are the final Gold Cup tables:
Group A

Team	Pts	GP	W	L	D	GF	GA	GD
Canada	6	3	2	1	0	5	3	+2
Costa Rica	4	3	1	1	1	3	3	0
Guadeloupe	4	3	1	1	1	3	3	0
Haiti	2	3	0	1	2	2	4	-2

Group B

Team	Pts	GP	W	L	D	GF	GA	GD
USA	9	3	3	0	0	7	0	+7
Guatemala	4	3	1	1	1	2	2	0
El Salvador	3	3	1	2	0	2	6	-4
T&T	1	3	0	2	1	2	5	-3

Group C

Team	Pts	GP	W	L	D	GF	GA	GD
Honduras	6	3	2	1	0	9	4	+5
Mexico	6	3	2	1	0	4	3	+1
Panama	4	3	1	1	1	5	5	0
Cuba	1	3	0	2	1	3	9	-6

Golden boot leaders:
4 - Carlos Pavón - Honduras
3 - Carlos Costly - Honduras
3 - Walter Centeno - Costa Rica
2 - Julián de Guzmán - Canada
2 - Dwayne De Rosario - Canada
2 - Reynier Alcántara - Cuba
2 - José Luis Garcés - Panama
2 - Blas Pérez - Panama
2 - DaMarcus Beasley - USA
2 - Amado Guevara - Honduras

Honduras blows Cuba away, Mexico must win or face US on Saturday

Honduras 5-0 Cuba
Honduras exploited every one of Cuba's many openings and tour them apart to clinch a spot in the quarterfinals. The second match of the night is about to kick off. If Panama can force at least a draw, Mexico will end up in third place and will have to face the USA on Saturday.

Even if Mexico wins, they cannot win the group due to their defeat by Honduras. Live blogging here.

Group C

Team	Pts	GP	W	L	D	GF	GA	GD
Honduras	6	3	2	1	0	9	4	+5
Panama	4	2	1	0	1	5	4	+1
Mexico	3	2	1	1	0	3	3	0
Cuba	1	3	0	1	1	3	9	-6

Gold Cup Day 8 - Group C comes to a close - Preview

What a tangled mess Group C has turned out to be. Even though it is the hardest of the three groups few that it would be in this position going into the final match. Who would have ever thought that Mexico could go home early if events turn out a certain way? And Panama sitting on top of things making it seem like 2005 wasn't a one shot deal. It is crazy time. Yet the biggest question is will it stay crazy or will order return to the soccer world? Just two matches to find out the answer.

Group C

Team	Pts	GP	W	L	D	GF	GA	GD
Panama	4	2	1	0	1	5	4	+1
Honduras	3	2	1	1	0	4	4	0
Mexico	3	2	1	1	0	3	3	0
Cuba	1	2	0	1	1	3	4	-1

So how can Group C play out? Here are possible scenarios:

- The big one, Cuba beats Honduras and Panama beats Mexico, giving Panama first, Cuba second and Honduras third due to their head-to-head with Mexico.

- Anything other then a Cuba victory will result in Panama, Honduras and Mexico advancing, unless Panama beat Mexico by five goals. If that happens, El Salvador (from Group B) will get the last third place spot in the quarterfinals.

- If both games end in ties, Mexico will claim the second third place spot and have to play the USA on Saturday.

- Panama can take first place if they beat Mexico or tie Mexico and Honduras does no better then a tie against Cuba.

- Honduras can take first place if they beat Cuba and Mexico beats or ties Panama.

- Mexico can take first place if they beat Panama and Honduras does no better then a tie against Cuba.

- Cuba cannot take first place in the group, however if they win and Panama lose, Cuba could take second provided the difference between Cuba's margin of victory and Panama's margin of defeat is greater then 2 or, if it is 2, that Cuba scores three more goals then Panama does. Otherwise, Cuba would take third place.

I think that sums everything up, but let me know if I missed an option. Here are the previews:

Cuba (1pt) vs. Honduras (3pts)
8pm ET/5pm PT - TV: TeleFutura (Spanish)
Live blogging here.
Honduras is by far the better side in this one but as Los Catrachos proved against Mexico on Sunday, underdogs have a way of making things happen. Cuba has been surprisingly strong on offense, thanks in large part to the work of Reynier Alcántara. Their technical skills are still way off the mark, but with a number of players always getting back, they can be difficult to beat. Honduras will look for Carlo Costly to continue his excellent run of form, but if they want to be a major threat in the knockout stage, they will need someone else to help out. Also, their defense needs to tighten up because they give away far too many cheap goals. One last thing, Honduras actually has a losing lifetime record against Cuba at 4-5-2.
Predictions: Me Cuba 1-2 Honduras, Wife Cuba 0-2 Honduras


Mexico (3pts) vs. Panama (4pts)
10pm ET/7pm PT - TV: Univision (Spanish)
Live blogging here.
Mexico is shaky at the moment so Panama's best chance is to come out attacking. If they try to bunker down, El Tri will eat them alive. Even without Blanco (out due to a red card), Mexico has options on the attack. Expect coach Hugo Sánchez to send these options out in full force but that will leave their underperforming defense open. Panama will need to position their passes just right to clear through the midfield and if they get in one-on-one situations deep in Mexico's side, they will get a goal, however one alone will not be enough for a win. If Mexico is not winning by the 50th minute, this game will become a dogfight, especially if Honduras wins in the first match.
Predictions: Me Mexico 3-1 Panama, Wife Mexico 2-1 Panama

Honduras beats Mexico 2-1

Honduras gave Mexico pain all afternoon with Carlo Costly leading the way. Costly got two goals including the winner in the 90th minute that sent 'El Tri' to third place in Group C.

Panama and Cuba are getting ready to kick off. If Panama can get at least a tie, they will remain in the top spot in the group for their final game on Wednesday against Mexico.

Here are the clips:

Gold Cup Day 3 - Group C preview/predictions

The last of the three groups kicks off tonight at Giants Stadium. This should be the most difficult group, but Mexico should not have much trouble taking it.

Panama vs. Honduras
7pm ET - TV: Galavision
Panama wants to repeat their trick from two years ago, but it looks like there will be too much talent from other sides to make it happen. Honduras come into the match with a much stronger midfield then Panama but they also have a big unknown in Amado Guevara. Guevara is a player who, like Carlos Ruiz, can be something amazing to watch but also can decide not to give a damn. Where as Ruiz almost never sleeps his way through national team matches, Guevara has. Jose Luis Garces should give Panama some chances, but Honduras should win.
Predictions: Me Panama 1-2 Honduras, Wife Panama 2 - 1 Honduras

Mexico vs. Cuba
9pm ET - TV: Univision
'El Tri' finally get things started and do so against what should be the weakest side in their group. Mexico have most of their big guns in for this one so it should be an easy walk. Still, I think Mexico's defense will let their guard down at some point and Cuba will sneak in a couple go chances. Cuauhtémoc Blanco might end up being the story of the night as his recent form in Mexico has been wonderful. In the end, Mexico will wash over Cuba, but I think there will be few more nervous moments then one would expect, but Mexico will take charge during the final 30-minutes.
Predictions: Me Mexico 3-0 Cuba, Wife Mexico 3-2 Cuba

2007 Concacaf Gold Cup - Group C Preview

Going into things, it looks like Group C is the most difficult of the three groups. Mexico should win it, but Honduras and Panama could spring some surprises and Cuba might make an unlikely splash on the tournament.

Cuba
Fifa rank - 71
Important players - Lester Moré , um....
Odds of advancing from group - 5 to 1
Another Concacaf team made up of unknowns, every group has to have one. Anyway, Cuba leaves has many holes, but they always seem to get at least one goal. Their luck this year might have to do with scheduling as they face Mexico first. If they can catch them off their guard, they might get a point. Still, their chances of making it through are weak. On a side note, it will be interesting to see if any players defect as Alberto Delgado and Rey Ángel Martínez did in 2002.

Honduras
Fifa rank - 55
Important players - Amado Guevara, Ivan Guerrero, Carlos Costly
Odds of advancing from the group - 3 to 1
Honduras is another one of those teams that is always lurking just below something really good. They have good touches and like to push the attack but suffer from defensive errors. With star Amado Guevara having nothing but time to prepare for this match, he shouldn't be tired but he also might not be game fit and that might be what their chances of advancing come down to.

Mexico
Fifa rank - 20
Important players - Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Rafa Marquez, Oswaldo Sánchez
Odds of advancing from the group - 5 to 4
Gold Cup Winners - 1993, 1996, 1998, 2003
Mexico is bringing a strong team this year and should be able to handle everyone in the group. However, over confidence might be a factor along with a backline that is not as tight as it should be. That said, all of their matches, except for maybe the final (if they and the US make it there), will seem like home games as their supporters will travel. This is a team that will probably start a little weaker then expected but grow as time goes by.

Panama
Fifa rank - 60
Important players - Jose Luis Garces, Ricardo Phillips
Odds of advancing from the group - 4 to 1
Two years ago, Panama took advantage of other teams weak rosters and made it to the finals where they almost toped the US. This year, they will not have as much luck. With 2005 goal scorers Jorge Dely Valdés retired and Luis Tejada off the roster, they will be hard pressed to find the net. If Honduras stumbles, Panama stands a good chance of moving along.

Predictions: Me - 1.Mexico 2.Honduras 3.Panama 4.Cuba
Wife - 1.Mexico 2.Panama 3.Cuba 4.Honduras

Schedule:
In New York
June 8 - Panama v Honduras (7pm ET/4pm PT - TV Galavision), Mexico v Cuba (9pm ET/6pm PT - TV - Univision)
June 10 - Honduras v Mexico (4pm ET/1pm PT - TV - Univision), Panama v Cuba (6pm ET/3pm PT - TV Galavision)
In Houston
June 13 - Cuba v Honduras (8pm ET/5pm PT - TV - Telefutura), Mexico v Panama (10pm ET/7pm PT - TV - Univision)

Rosters for all 2007 Concacaf Gold Cup sides

All 12 rosters for the 2007 Gold Cup are out. The Gold Cup runs from June 6-24.

2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final Rosters

CANADA
GK: Robert Giacomi (Beveren FC/BEL), Greg Sutton (Toronto FC), Joshua Wagenaar (ADO Den Haag/NED)

DF: Adam Braz (Toronto FC), Ali Gerba (FC Gothenborg/SWE), Gabriel Gervais (Montreal Impact), Andrew Hainault (Said Most FC/CZE), Chris Pozniak (Toronto FC), Marco Reda (Toronto FC)

MD: Patrice Bernier (Tromso FC/SWE), Julian DeGuzman (Deportivo La Coruna/ESP), Richard Hastings (Inverness CT/SCO), Kevin Harmse (Los Angeles Galaxy/USA), Iain Hume (Leicester City/ENG), Atiba Hutchinson (FC Copenhagen/DEN), Ante Jazic (Los Angeles Galaxy/USA), Nik Ledgerwood (1860 Munich/GER), Issey Nakajima-Farran (FC Vejle Bodklub/DEN), Martin Nash (Vancouver Whitecaps), Antonio Ribeiro (Montreal Impact), Paul Stalteri (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG)

FW: Dwayne DeRosario (Houston Dynamo/USA), Robert Friend (FC Heerenveen/NED)
Coach: Stephen HART

COSTA RICA
GK: Wardy Alfrado (LD Alajuelense), Dexter Lewis (Municipal Perez Zeledón), Jose Francisco Porras (Deportivo Saprissa)

DF: Allan Aleman (Deportivo Saprissa), Gabriel Badilla (Deportivo Saprissa), Pablo Chinchilla (Cash Point SCR/AUT), Victor Cordero (Deportivo Saprissa), Jervis Drummond (Deportivo Saprissa), Jose Freddy Fernandez (Municipal Perez Zeledón), Leonardo Gonzalez (CS Herediano), Alonso Solis (Deportivo Saprissa), Michael Umaña (CS Herediano), Harold Wallace (LD Alajuelense)

MD: Randall Azofeifa (KAA Gent/BEL), Michael Barrantes (Puntarenas FC), Christan Bolaños (Deportivo Saprissa), Walter Centeno (Deportivo Saprissa), Andres Nuñez (Deportivo Saprissa), Rodolfo Rodríguez (Brujas FC)

FW: Rolando Fonseca (LD Alajuelense), Windell Gabriel (Municipal Perez Zeledón), Bryan Ruiz (KAA Gent/BEL), Alvaro Saborio (Sion/SUI)
Coach: Hernán MEDFORD

CUBA
GK: Julio Aldama (Matanzas), Odelin Molina (Villa Clara), Dany Luis Quintero (Cienfuegos)

DF: Yusvanys Caballeros (Ciudad Habana), Jorge Luis Clavelo (Villa Clara), Jaime Colomé (Ciudad Habana), Joel Colomé (Ciudad Habana), Leonel Duarte (Ciego de Avila), Reysander Fernández (Ciego de Avila), Yenier Márquez (Villa Clara), Silvio Pedro Miñoso (Villa Clara)

MD: Osvaldo Alonso (Pinar del Río), Gisbel Morales (Pinar del Río), Enrique Villaurrutia (Cienfuegos)

FW: Reynier Alcántara (Pinar del Río), Alain Cervantes (Ciego de Avila), Pedro Adriani Faife (Villa Clara), Ariel Martinez (Sancti Spírtus), Lester Moré (Ciego de Avila), Adonis Ramos (Granma)
Coach: Raúl GONZALEZ

EL SALVADOR
GK: Juan Jose Gomez (CD Luis Angel Firpo), Miguel Angel Montes (Chalatenango), Dagoberto Portillo (Alianza FC)

DF: Luis Alonzo Anaya (CD Aguila), Ramiro Ernesto Carballo (Alianza FC), Alexander Escobar (Isidro Metapán), Leonel Guevara (CD Vista Hermosa), Jose Mardoqueo Henriquez (CD F.A.S.), Alfredo Alberto Pacheco (CD F.A.S.), Manuel Alejandro Salazar (CD Luis Angel Firpo), Jose Rolando Torres (CD Aguila)

MD: Dennis Jonathan Alas (San Salvador FC), Francisco Jovel Alvarez (Alianza FC), Jose Orlando Martinez (Alianza FC), Vicente Januario Melgar (Chalatenango), Carlos Alberto Menjivar (CD F.A.S.), Victor Hugo Merino (CD Luis Angel Firpo), Eliseo Quintanilla (San Salvador FC), Ramon Alfredo Sanchez (San Salvador FC)

FW: Juan Alexander Campos (CD Aguila), Ronald Cerritos (San Salvador FC), Cesar Alexander Larios (CD F.A.S.), Julio Enrique Martinez (Isidro Metapán)
Coach: Carlos DE LOS COBOS

GUADELOUPE
GK: Marius Fausta (Evolucas), Franck Grandel (FC Utrecht/NED), Fabrice Mercury (CS Moulien)

DF: Miguel Comminges (Reims/FRA), Philippe Durpes (Romorantin/FRA), David Fleurival (FC Tours/FRA), David Sommeil (Sheffield United/ENG), Michael Tacalfred (Dijon/FRA), Alain Vertot (Etoile de Morne-à-l'Eau)

MD: Jocelyn Angloma (Etoile de Morne-à-l'Eau), Stéphane Auvray (Vannes FC/FRA), Lery Hannany (Racing Club), Jean Luc Lambourde (Amical Club), Dominique Mocka (JS Vieux-Habitants), Marving Onestas (J/Evolution), Ludovic Quistin (Tamworth FC/ENG), Constant Therezine (AS Gosier)

FW: Aurélien Capoue (FC Nantes/FRA), Cédrick Fiston (A.J.S.S.), Ludovic Gotin (CS Moulien), Loic Loval (FC Utrecht/NED), Fabien Raddas (Poissy/FRA), Richard Socrier (Brest/FRA)
Coach: Roger SALNOT

GUATEMALA
GK: Luis Pedro Molina (Deportivo Jalapa), Paulo Cesar Motta (CSD Municipal), Ricardo Alberto Trigueño (Deportivo Marquense)

DF: Claudio Albizuris (CSD Municipal), Gustavo Cabrera (CSD Comunicaciones), Yony Flores (Deportivo Marquense), Nestor Martinez (Deportivo Marquense), Henry Alexander Medina (CSD Municipal), Pablo Sebastian Melgar (Antofagasta/CHI)

MD: Jose Manuel Contreras (CSD Comunicaciones), Hector Saul De Mata (CSD Comunicaciones), Carlos Figueroa (CSD Municipal), Rigoberto Gomez (CSD Comunicaciones), Leonel Noriega (Deportivo Marquense), Carlos Quiñones (Deportivo Marquense), Mario Rodriguez (CSD Municipal)

FW: Jairo Arreola (CSD Comunicaciones), Marvin Tomas Avila (Deportivo Suchitepequez), Dwight Pezzarossi (CSD Comunicaciones), Carlos Ruiz (FC Dallas/USA), Gregory Lester Ruiz (Deportivo Marquense), Hernan Sandoval (CSD Comunicaciones), Edwin Villatoro (CSD Municipal)
Coach: Hernan Dario GOMEZ

HAITI
GK: Gabart Fenelon (Miami FC/USA), Peterson Occenat (Violette AC), Jonas Simeon (Tempete)

DF: Frantz Bertin (Athletico Madrid/ESP), Pierre-Richard Bruny (Don Bosco), Frantz Gilles (Cavaly AS), Stephane Guillaume (Miami FC/USA), Windsor Noncent (Sans Club), Jean-Jacques Pierre (Nantes/FRA), Ednerson Raymond (Baltimore de St-Marc), Olrish Saurel (Don Bosco)

MD: Jean Sony Alcenat (Aigle Noir AC), J. Michel Alexandre Boucicaut (Violette AC), Mones Chery (Racing Club Haiten), Brunel Fucien (Aigle Noir AC), Peter Germain (Baltimore de St-Marc), James Marcelin (Racing Club Haiten), Turlien Romulus (Cavaly AS), Pierre Roland Saint Jean (Baltimore de St-Marc), Alain Vubert (Baltimore de St-Marc)

FW: Cadet Éliphene (Tempete FC), Noel Fabrice (Sans Club), Ricardo Pierre-Louis (no club)
Coach: Luis Armelio GARCIA

HONDURAS
GK: Donaldo Morales (CD Motagua), Adalid Puerto (CD Platense), Orlin Vallecillo (Real CD España)

DF: Edgar Alvarez (Messina/ITA), Oscar Bonieck Garcia (CD Olimpia), Jorge Samuel Caballeros (Changchun Yatai/CHN), Maynor Figueroa (CD Olímpia), Emilio Izaguirre (CD Motagua), Erick Vallecilo (Real CD España)

MD: Jorge Aaron Claros (CD Motagua), Ivan Guerrero (Chicago Fire/USA), Amado Guevara (Chivas USA/USA), Julio Cesar Leon (Genova/ITA), Emil Martinez (CD Marathon), Sergio Mendoza (CD Olimpia), Wilson Palacios (CD Olimpia), Mario Rodriguez (Real CD España)

FW: Carlos Costly (GKS Belchatow/POL), Jairo Martinez (CD Motagua), Walter Martinez (Shanghai Shenhua/CHN), Carlos Oliva (CD Marathon), Carlos Pavon (Real CD España), Luis Santamaría (CD Marathon)
Coach: Reinaldo RUEDA

MEXICO
GK: Jose De Jesus Corona (Tecos UAG), Guillermo Ochoa (Club América), Oswaldo Sanchez (Club Santos Laguna)

DF: Jose Antonio Castro (Club América), Rafael Marquez (FC Barcelona/ESP), Jose Jonny Magallon (CD Guadalajara), Ricardo Osorio (Stuttgart/GER), Fausto Pinto (Pachuca CF), Francisco Rodriguez (CD Guadalajara), Carlos Salcido (PSV Eindhoven/NED)

MD: Fernando Arce (CA Monarcas Moreila), Jose Andres Guardado (Atlas CF), Jaime Lozano (Tigres UANL), Alberto Medina (CD Guadalajara), Ramon Morales (CD Guadalajara), Pavel Pardo (Stuttgart/GER), Gerardo Torrado (CD SC Cruz Azul)

FW: Adolfo Bautista (CD Guadalajara), Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Club América), Jared Borgetti (CD SC Cruz Azul), Omar Bravo (CD Guadalajara), Nery Castillo (Olimpiakos/GRE), Jose Francisco Fonseca (Tigres UANL)
Coach: Hugo SANCHEZ

PANAMA
GK: Jose Calderon (Chepo FC), Donaldo Gonzalez (Atlético Veragüense), Oscar McFarlane (Tauro FC), Jaime Penedo (CA Osasuna/ESP)

DF: Reinaldo Anderson (Deportivo Árabe Unido), Felipe Baloy (CF Monterrey/MEX), Amilcar Henriquez (Deportivo Árabe Unido), Luis Henriquez (Tauro FC), Luis Moreno (Independiente Santa Fe/COL), Carlos Rivera (Tauro FC)

MD: Alberto Blanco (CD Plaza Amador), Rolando Escobar (Tauro FC), Gabriel Gomez (Independiente Santa Fe/COL), Victor Herrera (Puerto Rico Islanders/PUR), Engin Mitre (CD Plaza Amador), Juan Perez (Tauro FC), Ricardo Phillips (San Francisco FC), Juan Ramón Solis (CD Aguila/SLV)

FW: Edwin Aguilar (Tauro FC), Jose Luis Garces (OS Belenenses/POR), Nicolas Muñoz (CD Aguila/SLV), Blas Perez (Cucuta Deportivo/COL), Roman Torres (CD La Equidad/COL)
Coach: Alexandre GUIMARAES

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
GK: Marvin Phillip (North East Stars), Daurance Williams (San Juan Jabloteh), Jan Michael Williams (W Connection FC)

DF: Dwayne Jack (San Juan Jabloteh), Thomas Nickcolson (W Connection FC), Anthony Noreiga (Joe Public FC), Trent Noel (San Juan Jabloteh), Seon Power (Joe Public FC), Keyeno Thomas (Joe Public FC), Glenton Wolffe (North East Stars)

MD: Romauld Aguillera (United Petrotrin), Christon Baptiste (Defence Force), Kerry Baptiste (Joe Public FC), Keon Daniel (United Petrotrin), Andrei Pacheco (W Connection FC), Silvio Spann (W Connection FC), Densill Theobald (Caledonia AIA)

FW: Gary Glasgow (Joe Public FC), Kendall Jagdeosingh (North East Stars), Errol McFarlane (Superstar Rangers), Darryl Roberts (Sparta Rotterdam/NED), Andre Toussaint (W Connection FC)
Coach: Wilhelmus RIJSBERGEN

USA
GK: Brad Guzan (Chivas USA), Tim Howard (Everton FC/ENG), Kasey Keller (Borussia Moenchengladbach/GER)

DF: Carlos Bocanegra (Fulham FC/ENG), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Jay DeMerit (Watford FC/ENG), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege/BEL), Michael Parkhurst (New England Revolution), Frank Simek (Sheffield Wednesday/ENG), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United/ENG)

MD: DaMarcus Beasley (Manchester City/ENG), Michael Bradley (SC Heerenveen/NED), Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo), Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC/ENG), Benny Feilhaber (Hamburg SV/GER), Justin Mapp (Chicago Fire), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids), Steve Ralston (New England Revolution)

FW: Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Ed Johnson (Kansas City Wizards), Taylor Twellman (New England Revolution)
Coach: Bob BRADLEY