Stage Set for an Exciting Gold Cup: The Official 2009 Prediction

After two long analyses of Team USA’s long-term and short-term goals, it is time for this reporter to put his money where his mouth is and put forward some good old-fashioned prognostication. In this prediction, I will walk through my version of the tournament with detailed analysis of the group stages, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final matches. Can Team USA defend its title? Maybe. But it will be a very hard road to get back. And don't worry, there will be plenty of controversy along the way. Let us begin. (link)