The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is a heavy favorite heading into their Copa América opener against Bolivia, but bettors are looking beyond the moneyline for better value. With Team USA's scoring prowess in question, prop bets on individual player goals and goal totals are expected to attract more action.
The USMNT, currently ranked 11th in FIFA's world rankings, is a significant favorite over Bolivia, ranked 84th. As a result, the moneyline odds for Team USA to win are a hefty -550, meaning a bettor would need to wager $550 to win $100. This unattractive line has kept betting activity slow, according to Seamus Magee, trading manager and soccer aficionado at BetMGM.
USA Primed for Victory over Bolivia in Copa América Opener, But Bettors Seek Value in Prop Markets
Magee anticipates that bettors will shift their focus towards prop bets, which offer more lucrative payouts. Prop bets on Team USA to win by a certain margin, such as -1.5 or -2.5 goals, are priced at -175 and +145, respectively. This provides a more attractive option for bettors who believe in a comfortable American victory.
Individual player goalscorer bets are also expected to be popular. Haji Wright and Folarin Balogun are the co-favorites to score the match's first goal at +320, while Christian Pulisic sits at +360. Bettors can also wager on the total number of goals scored, with the Over (2.5 goals) set at -165 and the Under at +115.
While the USMNT is not among the favorites to win the Copa América, they are still considered a contender to reach the semifinals. Team USA is priced at +1200 to lift the trophy, with Argentina (-175) and Brazil (+225) as the top two contenders. However, Magee believes that the team can make a statement if they improve their defensive stability and find more consistency in their offense.
The USMNT faces a favorable opening match against Bolivia, but bettors are looking for better value beyond the moneyline odds. Prop bets on goal margins, player goals, and total goals are expected to see increased action as the match approaches. Team USA has the potential to make a run in the Copa América, but their defense and scoring ability will need to improve if they want to challenge the top teams in the tournament.
