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The last time the United States went to Kingston it took just one minute for the Americans to go in front, but things went downhill from there. Jamaica leveled before halftime then scored just after the hour mark to down the Americans and send them into a third round dogfight.
Both teams made it into the Hex, but now, nine months later, the U.S. is in much better shape. They are coming off of a good four-point March, while the Reggae Boyz just lost at home to Mexico and are now in a fight for their World Cup lives.
Can the U.S. sink Jamaica's World Cup hopes and set themselves on course for Brazil with the win they couldn't get last September?
Ryan: Don't underestimate the advantage of this group having already played in Jamaica, and especially the experience that Jurgen Klinsmann got out of the trip down there last time. Toss in that Michael Bradley will be available for this trip to The Office and there are a lot of reasons to believe that this match will go very differently than the last time around. The score will be the same, but the winner will be different as the U.S. comes away with a 2-1 win.
Kevin: I think Jamaica squandering chances and looking slow on the counter, while holding their own against Mexico was the worst case scenario for us. They'll be confident, but they'll know what to improve. Also, our defense is hilarious right now. Having said all of that, we still have the better team. 1-1 draw, but a comfortable one where we look well on top and look more likely to score a winner than they do.
Zach: On one hand I think the US will have some confidence after their strong offensive performance against Germany last weekend. On the other hand, the defense is a hot mess on a quality surface and considering how the ball bounces on the concrete-link grass in Jamaica, who knows what'll happen. If the US can get an early goal I think they'll be alright but if they end up chasing the game, I'm not feeling confident. I'm gonna go with a 1-1 draw.
Phil: You won't be shocked if I suggest that we'll get scored on by Jamaica, will you? Nope. Didn't think so. Our offense is good enough to score a goal or two against Jamaica, if things go to plan. I believe the forecast calls for potential thunderstorms, so you can see imagine we'll see at least one defensive derp by the starters. Jamaica will get their opportunities and are in a dire need of three points. I think they'll have to settle for the 1-1 draw.