The USMNT will look to rebound from a disappointing showing when they host New Zealand in an international soccer friendly Tuesday night.
Our USA vs. New Zealand predictions will break down the Yanks' chances as they take the pitch in Cincinnati for possibly the last time before the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, and their fans will be hungry to see a stronger performance than the one given in a 2-1 defeat to Canada.
Their opponents should present an easier challenge, but New Zealand will also be out to prove themselves better than the 3-0 loss to Mexico made them look. Read more in our free betting picks below.
USA vs New Zealand picks and predictions
My best bet:
Under 2.5 (+115 at bet365)
My analysis
It would be easy to look at the FIFA rankings in addition to New Zealand’s 3-0 defeat to Mexico and assume the Americans will roll on Tuesday night with a high-scoring victory. It's more likely to be another frustrating night and I expect this match to be starved for goals.
The biggest issue both these teams faced in their defeats over the weekend was pressure. Canada’s press forced the Americans into mistake after mistake, as their depleted midfield was unable to maintain composure and transition from defense to attack.
For New Zealand, it was a relentless wave of pressure from Mexico that led to their early goal. They struggled throughout to move the ball forward, and they ended the night without a single effort on goal and just two total shots.
New Zealand won’t face that same pressure in this match. The Americans will still have serious holes in their midfield and that will cause them to play more cautiously than they otherwise would. It’ll also still lead to problems both in the final third and in transition, as their link-up play won’t be as fluid.
Furthermore, the Americans are likely to rotate players here due to agreements they have with clubs. This means even if they jump out to an early lead, the likes of Christian Pulisic may come off after an hour or so given he played the full 90 against Canada.
Before their defeat to Mexico, the All Whites had played five straight matches against non-Oceanic nations where the final score saw two or fewer goals. They’ll get back to frustrating their opponents here, with the Americans coming away with a 1-0 or 2-0 victory.
USA vs New Zealand same-game parlay (SGP)
Under 2.5
USA to win to nil
Over 6 corners
As bad as the Americans looked at times this weekend, it’s important to remember they were facing a Canadian side that reached the Copa America semi-finals this summer. New Zealand won’t be that same kind of side.
The All Whites have a dangerous striker in Chris Wood, but he managed just 14 touches against Mexico. They’ve failed to score a goal in four of their last five friendlies against teams outside Oceana, and they won’t find a goal here either. The USA will find a way through and will claim the win to restore some positivity in the camp.
I wouldn't be surprised to see it take some time for the Americans to break down their defense, but I expect a response after this weekend’s performance. That should lead to plenty of corners.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
USA vs New Zealand odds
 USA |
 New Zealand |
|
|---|---|---|
| -323 | Moneyline | +760 |
| +420 | Draw | +420 |
| Over 2.5 (-152) | Total | Under 2.5 (+114) |
Odds courtesy of TonyBet.
USA vs New Zealand side and Over/Under analysis
- The Americans are heavily favored to win, priced at -323 or more on the 3-way line. New Zealand has odds as high as +760 to win, with the draw coming in at +420.
- New Zealand have lost seven of their last nine matches against teams outside Oceana, with just two draws. The Americans have lost three straight matches of their own, however.
- The total sees the Over quite favored, with odds of -140 or higher. That presents real value on the Under, as we’ve indicated with our best bet.
USA vs New Zealand game info
| Location: | TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, OH |
| Date: | Tuesday, 9-10-2024 |
| Time: | 7:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | Peacock |
| Weather: | Warm, sunny conditions. |
USA vs New Zealand key injuries
USA: Gio Reyna M (Out), Weston McKennie M (Out), Sergino Dest D (Out), Antonee Robinson D (Out), Timothy Weah F (Out), Tyler Adams M (Out).
New Zealand: Benjamin Old F (Out).
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
