USMNT vs. New Zealand prediction: 2024 Olympics pick, best bet

The United States Men’s National Team Olympic squad looks to rebound Saturday following a 3-0 defeat at the hands of host nation France.

The USMNT is a skeleton crew with no starters coming with them from the disastrous Copa America performance.

Coaching the squad now that Gregg Berhalter has been fired is Marko Mitrovic, although a new coach long term has yet to be announced.

Walker Zimmerman is the lone veteran for Team USA. AFP via Getty Images

USA played some solid defense in their Olympic opener but did little on offense, as France pushed forward through the first 75 minutes of the match.

New Zealand rolled through Guinea in their first match, 2-1, but still find themselves as huge underdogs to this USA squad.

USMNT vs. New Zealand prediction

Teams are only allowed three players over the age of 23, according to Olympic rules.

So all teams are forced to trot inexperienced bunches with lineups filled with late teens and early 20s players.

Paxten Aaronson leads the way for the USMNT as one of their promising young midfielders.

Team USA has a big match looming against New Zealand. AFP via Getty Images

The USMNT is also throwing Caleb Wiley out there, who is just 19, the youngest player to step foot on a pitch for the Stars and Stripes since Freddy Adu in 2009.

Both teams are live to mistakes, given the inexperience both teams face.

Team USA looks to win as a favorite to New Zealand. AP


2024 PARIS OLYMPICS


However, the USMNT had a poor offensive showing and seemed to be playing a counter-attacking strategy in that matchup.

New Zealand has a strong goalie, Alex Paulsen, who plays in the English Premier League club Bournemouth.

You could do worse than betting on a draw in this match.

PICK: Draw (+300)

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