The Copa America Centenario kicks off Friday in Santa Clara with Group A. This group includes first-time host USA, who are the +140 favourites to win Group A. Colombia is right behind them at +150. These two teams get the tournament started at 9:30 PM ET on Friday.
United States (+160) vs Colombia (+180) – Friday, June 3, 9:30 PM ET
The United States (+160) are slightly ahead of Colombia (+180) for the Friday matchup, with the draw set at +215. Colombia and USA have faced off 17 times in the past, with Colombia claiming 11 wins and three games resulting in draws. USA lost their most recent match with Columbia 1-2 in November 2014, and to make matters worse, their striker, Jozy Altidore, will miss the tournament due to a hamstring injury. The Americans' plan to rotate Brad Guzan and Tim Howard in goal makes it seem like neither one is strong enough to maintain the job.
Colombia will rely on midfielder James Rodriguez. The 24-year-old set the World Cup on fire in Brazil, but has struggled recently while playing for Real Madrid. If he plays to his potential, the Colombians have the best player in the group. Look for American midfielders Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones to try to slow down Rodriguez.
Costa Rica (+180) vs Paraguay (+180) – Saturday, June 4, 5 PM ET
Pressure is high for Costa Rica and Paraguay because the team that loses this game could be done in Group A. Costa Rica has the best keeper in the group in Keylor Navas, who has had a great season at Real Madrid. He'll be essential to their success because they don't score many goals outside of striker Bryan Ruiz. Costa Rica (+600) is just ahead of Paraguay (+700) to win Group A.
So far, Paraguay has a pair of draws in the World Cup qualifications against Ecuador and Brazil. This could be a breakout time for striker Dario Lezcano, who scored four goals in three World Cup qualifiers. These two teams have each won three times and drawn twice in eight meetings, including a 0-0 tie last March in a friendly. The draw for Saturday's match is +195.
Colombia vs Costa Rica – Saturday, June 11, 9 PM ET
Costa Rica could have a chance to get through the first stage when they face the Colombians in Houston. At first glance, Colombia has the upper hand; they have nine wins, three losses and one draw in their 13 meetings with Costa Rica. They'll have to be careful though because Costa Rica will sit back, hit Colombia on the counter-attack and try to limit Rodriguez's space in midfield. Colombia could be playing for first place in the group, meaning they could evade Brazil in the next round (if Brazil wins Group B). Don't miss this thrilling finale to the group stage at the Copa America Centenario.
*Odds as of May 30, 2016