Expert Picks

Team USA backers are putting too much stock in Christian Pulisic's vow to play with a pelvic injury. He has yet to be cleared. Even if he does answer the bell, it is irrational to assume the Americans' primary scoring threat will be fit enough for his usual 90 minutes of sprinting and absorbing fouls. An overlooked concern is forward Josh Sargent, whose ailing ankle could inhibit him. Scoring was already looming as a challenge against the Netherlands, which has permitted one goal. Its all-star back line will allow the attackers to do their thing. Striker Memphis Depay is recovering from his injury, adding to the favorites' arsenal.

The Americans might be able to hang in there and force extra time, but I don’t think so. With the team struggling to score even before Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Josh Sargent all got banged up, it doesn’t look good for Team USA. They are 0-6-5 against UEFA teams since reaching the World Cup quarterfinals in 2002. Sure, they went toe to toe with England, but that game wasn’t crucial for the Three Lions. This is a different story, and Cody Gakpo and Co. should get it done. This USA team has a ton of heart, and I hope they surprise me, but my wallet is telling me they won’t. I'd play this to -130.

The USA scored just twice during the group stage and its best player, Christian Pulisic, isn't 100 percent -- assuming he even plays. Meanwhile, American keeper Matt Turner kept two clean sheets. Definitely the first time I have used the term "clean sheets" in this space and most likely the last. The Oranje allowed just one goal during the group stage. This seems too easy -- probably why the Under is juiced to -160.